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Ovarian Cysts: When to Worry and How They Are Checked
Quick answer: An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac on or in the ovary. Most are functional cysts linked to ovulation and go away within a few menstrual cycles. At Eunice Women's Clinic near Seongsu Station, Dr. Eun Mi-na, an English-speaking female OB-GYN, checks cysts with ultrasound and plans follow-up. Sudden severe pelvic pain needs emergency care, and surgery is by hospital referral.
What is an ovarian cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a sac, usually filled with fluid, that forms on or inside an ovary. Ovarian cysts are very common, especially during the reproductive years. Most are harmless and cause no symptoms.
What types of ovarian cysts are there?
- Functional cysts(follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts): form as part of the normal menstrual cycle and usually disappear within 1 to 3 cycles.
- Endometriomas: cysts caused by endometriosis, sometimes called "chocolate cysts".
- Dermoid cysts(mature teratomas): contain tissue such as fat or hair; they are usually benign.
- Cystadenomas: benign cysts filled with watery or mucous fluid, which can grow large.
Many small cysts on the ovaries can also be a feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a different condition. Cancerous ovarian masses are uncommon, especially before menopause.
What are the symptoms of an ovarian cyst?
- Often none; many cysts are found during a routine ultrasound
- Dull ache or pressure on one side of the lower abdomen
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Pain during sex
- Changes in periods
What causes ovarian cysts?
Functional cysts form when a follicle does not release an egg or when the corpus luteum fills with fluid after ovulation. Other cysts are caused by endometriosis, changes in ovarian cells, or, less often, infection. Pregnancy and some fertility medicines can also be associated with cysts.
When should I see a doctor?
See a gynecologist for ongoing pelvic pain or pressure, bloating that does not go away, pain during sex, or a cyst found elsewhere that needs follow-up. People after menopause with a new ovarian cyst should also have it checked.
Seek emergency care (call 119 or go to an emergency room) if you have:
- Sudden, severe pelvic or abdominal pain, especially on one side, which can be ovarian torsion (twisting) or cyst rupture
- Pain with fever or vomiting
- Dizziness, fainting, fast breathing, or cold, clammy skin
- Pelvic pain with a positive pregnancy test
How are ovarian cysts evaluated at the clinic?
A transvaginal ultrasound is the main test. It shows the size of the cyst and whether it looks simple (thin wall, clear fluid) or complex. A pelvic ultrasound through the abdomen can be used for large cysts or when a vaginal exam is not suitable. A pregnancy test may be done to rule out pregnancy. For some cysts, a ROMA test(a blood test combining CA-125 and HE4) helps estimate risk.
| Test | Out-of-pocket price (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Gynecologic ultrasound (non-covered) | 70,000 |
| ROMA test | 60,000 |
| Urine pregnancy test | 10,000 |
Many tests are covered by NHIS when medically indicated. Prices may change; confirm with the clinic.
What are the treatment options for ovarian cysts?
- Watchful waiting: simple cysts are usually rechecked by ultrasound after 6 to 12 weeks to confirm they have gone.
- Pain relief: over-the-counter pain relievers for mild discomfort.
- Hormonal contraceptives: may reduce the formation of new functional cysts, although they do not shrink existing ones. Hormonal treatment is also used for endometriomas.
- Surgery: large, persistent, or complex cysts, or cysts causing severe symptoms, may need laparoscopic removal at a hospital. Eunice Women's Clinic does not perform surgery; Dr. Eun refers patients when needed.
Individual results vary.
Getting care in English near Seongsu Station
Eunice Women's Clinic is on the 8th floor of Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. The building is across the crosswalk from Seoul Subway Line 2 Seongsu Station Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk ( directions). Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, holds consultations about ovarian cysts in English.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Mon, Wed, Fri | 10:00–19:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30) |
| Tue, Thu | 10:00–20:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30) |
| Sat | 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break) |
| Sun and public holidays | Closed |
Booking is recommended. You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search "유니스산부인과"), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100 ( how to book). Call or message to check same-day availability.
Book an appointment in English
Eunice Women's Clinic · 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul · Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3
Phone: +82-2-467-3100 · KakaoTalk channel · Naver Booking
Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Thu 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–14:00 · Lunch 13:30–14:30 · Closed Sundays & public holidays
Frequently asked questions
Do ovarian cysts go away on their own?
Most functional ovarian cysts go away on their own within 1 to 3 menstrual cycles. A follow-up ultrasound after 6 to 12 weeks is often recommended to confirm this. Endometriomas and dermoid cysts do not usually disappear on their own.
Is an ovarian cyst a sign of cancer?
Most ovarian cysts in people before menopause are benign. Features on ultrasound, age, and blood tests such as ROMA help estimate risk. Cysts with worrying features are referred to a hospital for further evaluation.
What does a ruptured ovarian cyst feel like?
A ruptured cyst can cause sudden, sharp pain on one side of the lower abdomen, sometimes after sex or exercise. Severe pain, dizziness, or fainting may mean internal bleeding and requires emergency care. Call 119 if symptoms are severe.
Can I exercise with an ovarian cyst?
Most people with small, simple cysts can continue normal activities. People with large cysts may be advised to avoid intense or twisting exercise because of the risk of torsion. Ask your doctor about your specific cyst.
Is an ovarian cyst the same as PCOS?
No. An ovarian cyst is usually a single sac. PCOS is a hormonal condition with irregular ovulation, and the ovaries often show many small follicles on ultrasound. The two are evaluated and treated differently.
Related pages
This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.