Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, When They’re Normal, and When to See a Gynecologist

Ovarian cysts are among the most common findings in gynecologic care, and if you have recently been told you have one, or if you are wondering whether your pelvic discomfort might be related to one, you are far from alone. Most ovarian cysts are benign, fluid-filled sacs that form on or within the ovaries and resolve on their own without treatment. Still, understanding what is normal, what symptoms deserve attention, and when to involve a provider can help you feel informed and in control of your health. If you have questions about what you are experiencing, the team at MAIA Gynecology in Downers Grove, IL is here to help.

Ready to talk through your concerns with a provider? Book a consultation online or call MAIA Gynecology today.

What Are Ovarian Cysts and Why Do They Form?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. They are incredibly common throughout the reproductive years, and many women have them at some point without ever knowing it. The most frequent type is a functional cyst, which forms as a natural part of the menstrual cycle. During ovulation, a follicle develops and releases an egg. Sometimes that follicle does not release the egg as expected, or it seals off and continues to collect fluid, creating a follicular cyst. These typically resolve within one to three menstrual cycles.

Other common types include the following.

Corpus Luteum Cysts

After ovulation, the follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to support a potential pregnancy. If fluid accumulates within it, a corpus luteum cyst forms. These usually resolve on their own but can sometimes cause pelvic pain.

Dermoid Cysts and Endometriomas

Dermoid cysts contain tissue such as hair or skin cells and develop from reproductive cells. Endometriomas form as a result of endometriosis and consist of endometrial-like tissue growing on the ovary. Both types are less likely to resolve without intervention and may require further evaluation or treatment.

A Note on PMOS, Formerly Known as PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome was officially renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, or PMOS, through international consensus in 2026. One of the central reasons for the change is directly relevant here: despite the old name, the small structures seen on ultrasound in PMOS are arrested follicles, not true ovarian cysts, and research supporting the renaming found no increase in abnormal ovarian cysts among people with the condition. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS or PMOS and are worried about cysts, that distinction matters, and our team can walk you through it as part of our broader gynecologic care services.

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms: What Feels Normal and What to Watch For

Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms at all and are discovered incidentally during a routine pelvic exam or pelvic ultrasound. When symptoms do occur, they can vary depending on the size, type, and location of the cyst.

Common Symptoms That May Indicate an Ovarian Cyst

• A dull or sharp ache on one side of the lower abdomen

• Bloating or a sensation of fullness in the pelvis

• Pain during intercourse

• Changes in your menstrual cycle, including heavier bleeding or irregular periods

• Frequent urination or difficulty fully emptying the bladder if the cyst is large

These symptoms can overlap with several other gynecologic conditions, including dysmenorrhea and fibroids, which is why an accurate evaluation is important rather than assuming a cause on your own.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Certain symptoms may suggest a cyst has ruptured or that ovarian torsion, a twisting of the ovary, has occurred. These are situations that require prompt medical attention:

• Sudden, severe pelvic pain

• Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting

• Feeling faint, dizzy, or experiencing rapid breathing alongside pelvic pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency care without delay. For symptoms that are persistent but not acute, scheduling an evaluation with your gynecologist is the right next step.

How Ovarian Cysts Are Diagnosed and Managed

When a provider suspects an ovarian cyst, the evaluation typically begins with a pelvic exam, followed by a pelvic ultrasound to confirm the presence, size, and characteristics of the cyst. Ultrasound is highly effective at distinguishing between simple fluid-filled cysts and more complex structures that warrant further investigation. You can read more about how our practice approaches ovarian cyst evaluation and treatment.

Watchful Waiting

For most functional ovarian cysts, the recommended approach is watchful waiting, meaning your provider monitors the cyst over one to two menstrual cycles to confirm it resolves on its own. A follow-up ultrasound is often scheduled to verify resolution. During this time, your provider may discuss pain management strategies if you are experiencing discomfort.

When Treatment May Be Recommended

Not all ovarian cysts resolve without intervention. Your provider may discuss further evaluation or treatment if a cyst is large, does not resolve after monitoring, has complex characteristics on imaging, or is causing significant symptoms. In some cases, hormonal contraception may be considered to help regulate the cycle; you can explore safe and effective contraception options with our team as part of a broader care conversation.

For cysts that require removal, minimally invasive surgical approaches are often available. At MAIA Gynecology, our providers have extensive experience in minimally invasive gynecologic procedures, which are associated with shorter recovery times and less disruption to your daily life compared to traditional open surgery. Individual outcomes vary, and your provider will discuss what to expect based on your specific situation.

Why Choose MAIA Gynecology in Downers Grove, IL?

MAIA Gynecology offers patients throughout Downers Grove and the surrounding Chicago suburbs a genuinely different kind of gynecologic experience. Our team, including Dr. Karen Wolowick, Dr. Susan Mitchell, Dr. Colleen Skay, and Ashley Cox, PA-C, brings a combined depth of experience that spans decades of clinical practice. Our physicians are board-certified gynecologists, and Ashley Cox is a board-certified physician assistant with more than 15 years in women’s health.

What sets MAIA apart is the environment we have created for patients. This is an independent, boutique practice where you receive genuine one-on-one time with your provider, not a rushed visit in a large clinic. From the way we communicate through our HIPAA-compliant patient portal to the cozy robes we offer in place of hospital gowns, every detail reflects our commitment to your comfort. If you are experiencing ovarian cyst symptoms and want personalized, evidence-based guidance, we encourage you to meet our team and schedule a consultation.

Questions about what to expect? Explore our patient resources or contact our office directly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ovarian Cysts

Can ovarian cysts affect my fertility?

In many cases, simple functional ovarian cysts do not affect fertility and resolve without intervention. However, certain types, such as endometriomas or large cysts that cause structural changes to the ovary, may have an impact on reproductive health. If fertility is a concern for you, our team offers dedicated female fertility consultations and can help you understand your options. Individual circumstances vary significantly, so a personalized evaluation is the most helpful starting point.

Are ovarian cysts more common at certain life stages?

Functional ovarian cysts occur most often during the reproductive years when ovulation is occurring regularly. They are less common after menopause, though cysts that develop in postmenopausal women typically receive closer monitoring because the hormonal context is different. If you are approaching or navigating menopause and have concerns about pelvic symptoms, our providers offer comprehensive menopause hormone therapy consultations alongside general gynecologic care.

Will I need surgery for an ovarian cyst?

Most ovarian cysts do not require surgery. Functional cysts typically resolve on their own within a few cycles, and your provider will monitor them with follow-up imaging. Surgery may be considered if a cyst is large, persistent, complex in structure, or causing significant symptoms. When surgery is recommended, minimally invasive approaches are often appropriate. Your provider will explain all available options and help you make an informed decision based on your individual presentation.

I live near Downers Grove but not in it. Can I still be seen at MAIA Gynecology?

Absolutely. MAIA Gynecology serves patients throughout the Chicago suburbs, including Lombard, Naperville, and surrounding communities. We also offer telehealth appointments for eligible concerns, with Dr. Wolowick licensed to see patients physically located in Illinois, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin at the time of their visit. Licensure varies by provider, so our team is happy to help you determine whether an in-person or telehealth visit is the right fit. You can find directions and location details on our directions page.

How will I know if a cyst I have is something to worry about?

This is one of the most common questions patients ask, and it is a completely understandable one. Most ovarian cysts seen during reproductive years are benign and self-resolving. Characteristics that prompt closer evaluation include larger size, complex or solid components on ultrasound, persistence beyond two to three cycles, or symptoms that are worsening. The most reliable way to assess a cyst is a thorough clinical evaluation, not self-diagnosis. Scheduling a gynecologic wellness visit is the right first step if you have concerns.

Schedule Your Ovarian Cyst Evaluation at MAIA Gynecology in Downers Grove, IL

If you are experiencing pelvic symptoms or have questions about ovarian cysts and what they mean for your health, the compassionate, board-certified team at MAIA Gynecology is here for you. Serving Downers Grove and the greater Chicago area, we provide personalized, evidence-based gynecologic care in a welcoming, boutique setting. Book your consultation online or call us today and get the answers you deserve.