Ovarian Cyst Management
Fast Private Diagnosis & Treatment for Ovarian Cysts
Pelvic pain, bloating, or irregular periods can all be signs of an ovarian cyst. At Gynaeaesthetics London, we offer fast private diagnosis and personalised treatment — so you get answers quickly and the right care without unnecessary delay. Mr Mohammad Masood sees patients across Essex and East London with same-week appointments available.
What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside one of the ovaries. They are extremely common and in many cases cause no symptoms at all — resolving on their own without any treatment. However, some ovarian cysts can grow larger, cause significant discomfort, or indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Getting a proper private assessment is the best way to understand exactly what you are dealing with and what — if anything — needs to be done.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Functional Cysts
The most common type, functional cysts form as part of the normal menstrual cycle. They usually disappear on their own within a few weeks or months and rarely require treatment.
Endometriomas
Also known as chocolate cysts, these develop as a result of endometriosis and can cause significant pelvic pain. They often require treatment and can affect fertility if left unmanaged.
Dermoid Cysts
A type of benign cyst that can contain tissue such as hair, skin, or teeth. They are usually present from birth and grow slowly over time.
Cystadenomas
Cysts that develop from cells on the outer surface of the ovary. They can grow very large and may require surgical removal.
Polycystic Ovaries
Associated with PCOS, polycystic ovaries contain many small follicles that have not developed or released an egg properly. This is a hormonal condition rather than a single cyst.
The most common type, functional cysts form as part of the normal menstrual cycle. They usually disappear on their own within a few weeks or months and rarely require treatment.
Endometriomas
Also known as chocolate cysts, these develop as a result of endometriosis and can cause significant pelvic pain. They often require treatment and can affect fertility if left unmanaged.
Dermoid Cysts
A type of benign cyst that can contain tissue such as hair, skin, or teeth. They are usually present from birth and grow slowly over time.
Cystadenomas
Cysts that develop from cells on the outer surface of the ovary. They can grow very large and may require surgical removal.
Polycystic Ovaries
Associated with PCOS, polycystic ovaries contain many small follicles that have not developed or released an egg properly. This is a hormonal condition rather than a single cyst.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and are discovered incidentally during a scan. However, larger or more complex cysts may cause:
- Pelvic pain or pressure — particularly on one side
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- Irregular or painful periods
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Frequent need to urinate
- Difficulty emptying the bowel
- Unexplained weight gain
When to seek urgent help:
If you experience sudden, severe pelvic pain — particularly alongside nausea, vomiting, or fever — seek medical attention immediately, as this may indicate a ruptured or twisted cyst, which requires urgent treatment.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts can develop for a number of reasons, including:
- Normal ovulation — functional cysts are a natural part of the menstrual cycle
- Endometriosis — leading to the formation of endometriomas
- Polycystic ovary syndrome — causing multiple small follicular cysts
- Hormonal imbalances affecting egg development and release
- Pelvic infections that can lead to abscess formation on the ovaries
- Pregnancy — a corpus luteum cyst can sometimes form in early pregnancy
How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed?
At Gynaeaesthetics London, diagnosis begins with a thorough private consultation with Mr Mohammad Masood. He will review your symptoms and medical history before recommending the appropriate investigations, which may include:
- Pelvic ultrasound: the primary tool for identifying and assessing ovarian cysts, providing clear information about the size, location, and nature of the cyst
- Blood tests: including CA-125 to help assess the nature of the cyst, alongside hormone levels and other relevant markers
- Internal examination: where appropriate and comfortable for you
- Further imaging: such as an MRI scan if additional detail is needed
Treatment Options
The right treatment for an ovarian cyst depends entirely on its type, size, and whether it is causing symptoms. Mr Masood will discuss all available options with you and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
- Watchful Waiting: For small, simple functional cysts that are not causing symptoms, a period of careful monitoring with repeat ultrasound scans may be all that is needed. Many cysts resolve on their own without any intervention.
- Hormonal Treatment: In some cases, hormonal treatments such as the contraceptive pill may be recommended to help prevent new cysts from forming, particularly in women with recurrent functional cysts or PCOS.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery — Laparoscopic Cystectomy: For cysts that are large, symptomatic, or complex, surgical removal may be recommended. Mr Masood is an experienced laparoscopic surgeon and performs cyst removal using minimally invasive keyhole surgery — meaning smaller incisions, less pain, and a faster recovery compared to open surgery.
- Oophorectomy: In rare cases where the cyst is very large or the ovary is severely affected, removal of the ovary may be necessary. Mr Masood will only recommend this when absolutely required and will always discuss all options with you fully beforehand.
Why Choose Gynaeaesthetics London?
- Consultant-led care by Mr Mohammad Masood
- Fast private ultrasound and assessment
- No GP referral needed
- Same-week appointments available
- Clinics in Hornchurch, Brentwood, and Ilford
- Minimally invasive surgical options
- Fully confidential from start to finish
- Treatments from £200
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Don't put it off any longer. Get fast, private, consultant-led care at a clinic near you — with no GP referral needed and appointments often available within the same week.