Ovarian Cyst
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that grows in or on an ovary. You have 2 ovaries, 1 on each side of your uterus. They are small, about the shape of an almond. Ovarian cysts are common in women who have regular monthly cycles. During your monthly cycle, eggs are released from the ovaries. The cyst usually contains fluid but may sometimes have blood or tissue in it. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away without treatment in a few months. Some cysts can grow large, cause pain, or break open.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have severe pain with fever and vomiting.
- You have sudden, severe abdominal pain.
- You are too weak, faint, or dizzy to stand up.
- You are breathing very quickly.
Call your doctor if:
- Your periods are early, late, or more painful than usual.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Birth control pills may help control your monthly cycle, prevent cysts, or cause them to shrink.
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage ovarian cysts:
You can manage a current cyst and help healthcare providers find future cysts early.
- Apply heat to decrease pain and cramping from a cyst. Sit in a warm bath, or place a heating pad (turned on low) on your abdomen. Do this for 15 to 20 minutes every hour for comfort.
- Get regular pelvic exams or Pap smears. This will help providers find any new ovarian cysts. Tell your healthcare provider about any unusual changes in your monthly cycle.
Follow up with your doctor or gynecologist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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