Discovering you have an ovarian cyst can be worrying, especially if you’re thinking about starting or expanding your family. The good news is that ovarian cysts are extremely common, and most are harmless, often resolving on their own without impacting fertility.
That said, some cysts can influence hormone balance or cause complications if they grow larger, making it important to understand the type of cyst you have. Here, we look at the different types of ovarian cysts, how they may affect reproductive health, and the steps you can take to manage them safely. Read on to learn more.
Ovarian cysts come in various forms, each with unique characteristics and potential effects on reproductive health. Common types include:
The impact of ovarian cysts on fertility varies widely, depending on the type, size, and whether they interfere with normal ovarian function. Many cysts do not affect fertility at all, but others may influence ovulation, egg quality, or reproductive structures.
Endometriomas are linked to endometriosis and may affect fertility through several ways. They can cause chronic inflammation and scarring within the pelvis, potentially disrupting egg release or blocking the fallopian tubes, which may prevent fertilisation. When present on the ovary, they may also affect egg quality and reduce ovarian reserve over time.
In PCOS, hormonal imbalance leads to the formation of multiple small cysts and disrupts the normal ovulation process. As a result, the ovaries may not release eggs regularly, making natural conception more challenging. Fertility issues in PCOS are primarily related to irregular or absent ovulation rather than the cysts themselves. With appropriate medical support, however, many women with PCOS can conceive successfully.
Functional cysts are generally temporary and harmless, but very large cysts can occasionally interfere with ovarian function. In some cases, they may cause ovarian torsion, a condition where the ovary twists and restricts blood flow, potentially affecting ovarian reserve if not treated promptly.
Ovarian cysts can sometimes be discovered for the first time during pregnancy, often during routine ultrasounds. In most cases, these cysts are harmless and may shrink or disappear naturally as the pregnancy progresses. However, certain types or larger cysts may need closer monitoring to ensure both your health and your baby’s safety.
These cysts support early pregnancy by producing hormones, but can occasionally become enlarged. If this happens, they may cause pelvic pain, internal bleeding or, in rare cases, ovarian torsion, which may require medical attention.
Cysts that continue to grow or do not resolve over time may increase the risk of complications such as torsion or rupture. In later stages of pregnancy, very large cysts may also interfere with labour or delivery.
Typically stable during pregnancy, endometriomas may occasionally rupture or cause discomfort, especially in the third trimester. Careful evaluation and management are important to ensure maternal and foetal safety.
Regular monitoring and timely assessment help manage ovarian cysts safely during pregnancy, with treatment decisions guided by cyst type, size, and gestational age.
While many ovarian cysts are harmless, certain signs suggest the need for specialist assessment. Early evaluation can prevent complications and support both fertility and pregnancy health.
Ongoing or intense pain may indicate cyst enlargement, rupture or ovarian torsion. These situations require prompt medical attention, as delayed treatment can threaten ovarian function and maternal health during pregnancy.
If conception hasn’t occurred despite regular attempts, a specialist can assess whether cysts are linked to conditions such as endometriosis or PCOS, and guide fertility planning
Women with a history of endometriosis or repeated cyst formation benefit from specialist monitoring to track disease progression and reduce potential complications, particularly before conception.
Unpredictable periods may signal disrupted ovulation. A specialist can determine whether cysts or hormonal imbalances are contributing and advise on treatment to restore regular cycles and protect fertility.
Being diagnosed with an ovarian cyst doesn’t automatically mean your fertility or pregnancy is at risk. Very often, simple monitoring is all that’s needed, while others may benefit from timely treatment or specialist guidance. What matters most is understanding your individual situation and addressing any concerns early, so you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health with confidence.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, are experiencing symptoms, or are planning for pregnancy and would like personalised advice, our experienced OBGYN specialists are here to help. Contact us to arrange a consultation and receive tailored care that supports both your fertility and overall well-being.
Are ovarian cysts dangerous during pregnancy?
Most ovarian cysts are not dangerous during pregnancy and do not cause serious problems. Large or complex cysts, however, may occasionally cause torsion, rupture, or internal bleeding, which require urgent medical attention.
Will an ovarian cyst affect my baby’s development?
Ovarian cysts remain confined to the ovary and do not affect the uterus or placenta, so they do not impact fetal growth.
Can ovarian cysts cause miscarriage or harm the baby?
Generally, cysts do not cause miscarriage. Nevertheless complications like torsion, rupture, or infection may pose risks to the mother, which in rare cases could affect the pregnancy if not managed promptly.
Can ovarian cysts resolve on their own during pregnancy?
Yes. Many functional cysts, including corpus luteum cysts, shrink and resolve naturally during pregnancy. This often occurs by the end of the first trimester, around 14 to 16 weeks, once the placenta takes over hormone production.
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