Ovarian Cyst Recurrence: A Complete Guide

Several conditions impact women’s health—many of which are treatable and manageable. However, some conditions, such as ovarian cysts, can recur.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop inside the ovary or on its surface. They are common, often non-cancerous (benign), and mostly resolve on their own without causing symptoms. Their occurrence can be influenced by several factors and requires medical attention. In certain cases, especially when cysts are large, persistent, or symptomatic, surgical intervention may be necessary.

However, one of the main challenges with this condition is the risk of recurrence after surgery, which can happen for different reasons.

In this blog, we will understand the symptoms of ovarian cyst recurrence, its causes, the treatment options, and ways to prevent it after surgery.

A] Symptoms of Ovarian Cyst Recurrence

Pelvic pain is one of the common symptoms of ovarian cyst recurrence, which is often sharp and experienced on one side. If you have a feeling of abdominal bloating or swelling, it could also indicate ovarian cyst recurrence. Pain during intercourse, irregularities in periods, fatigue, frequent urination, and trouble during bowel movements are also among the symptoms.

It is important to be aware of these and other symptoms that women should never ignore says gynaecologist to ensure early diagnosis and timely treatment.

B] Causes of Ovarian Cyst Recurrence

1. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and the ovulatory process. Any disruption in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can lead to the formation of cysts.

Condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes an imbalance in reproductive hormones, which are often associated with recurrent ovarian cysts. Women with PCOS are at are higher risk of recurrence due to hormone disruption, which impacts ovulation and follicle development.

You can read more about PCOS and its impact on fertility to better understand its complications and long-term effects on reproductive health.

2. Cyst Development on the Opposite Ovary

There are a variety of reasons why a cyst recurs on the opposite ovary; one possible cause could be an imbalance in ovarian function. For instance, when one ovary, which is less functional due to a cyst or is surgically removed, the other ovary may compensate by becoming overactive, potentially increasing the risk of cyst development.

The recurrence could also result from incomplete removal of previous cysts. Any remaining tissue can regenerate, increasing the chances of cyst formation on both ovaries. Although this cause is relatively rare, especially when the procedure is performed by an expert surgeon. 

When a woman experiences chronic ovulatory dysfunction, that is, irregular or absent ovulation, there is a possibility that both ovaries are affected.

On ovaries affected by chronic ovulatory dysfunction, the risk of cyst formation is higher, and recurrent cysts may develop on both sides.

3. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It often affects the ovaries, and a common complication of this condition is the formation of endometriomas. Endometriomas are a type of ovarian cyst filled with old, dark blood and are also referred to as “chocolate cysts”. The recurrence rate of endometriomas is high, even after surgical removal. This occurs because the underlying endometrial tissue is not completely removed during surgery and continues to grow in response to hormonal fluctuations.

Learn more by understanding the impact of ovarian cysts on menstrual health.

4. Emotional and Physical Stress

Our stress levels, especially prolonged stress, significantly impact the body by weakening our immune system. When the immune system is compromised, it becomes harder for the body to heal and regulate post-surgery. This increases the risk of cyst recurrence due to persistent weakness, inflammation, and poor tissue recovery. Elevated cortisol levels can also be among the contributing factors, as they are associated with stress. Additionally, stress often leads to insomnia or poor sleep quality. Inadequate rest disturbs the circadian rhythm, which plays a vital role in hormone regulation. Hence, irregular sleep can indirectly trigger hormonal fluctuations and can potentially lead to the formation or recurrence of ovarian cysts.

5. Age and Menstrual History

Women of reproductive age—generally between late teens and mid-40s—are more prone to developing functional cysts as a normal result of monthly ovulation. Early menarche and late menopause involve prolonged exposure to hormonal fluctuations, which increases the risk of frequent cyst development and even recurrence. During perimenopause, the hormone levels fluctuate unpredictably. These hormonal shifts can result in the formation of cysts, some of which may be persistent or complex.   

C] Treatment Options

There is a range of surgical and medical treatments for ovarian cysts that can be considered, depending on the type of cyst and the patient’s health condition.

Surgical Methods:

• Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy
  This minimally invasive surgery is recommended for cysts that are small and accessible. The procedure involves making small incisions in the abdomen to remove the cyst. The recovery time is shorter, and the risk of complications is lower compared to traditional surgery.
• Open Ovarian Cystectomy (Laparotomy)
  This more traditional surgery is suitable in cases when the cyst is large and complex. During the surgery, the surgeon makes a large incision, which allows them to access the cysts more deeply and remove them. The recovery period tends to be longer.
• Medications or Hormonal Therapies
  In cases when surgery is not needed, the symptoms can be managed by hormonal treatment. This may include combined oral contraceptives, progestin-only pills, or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. These medications are typically prescribed to prevent the formation of new cysts. Hormonal therapies help regulate menstrual cycles and also suppress ovulation. In some cases, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may also be recommended to manage symptoms.

D] How to Prevent Ovarian Cyst Recurrence After Surgery?

To avoid the risk of ovarian cyst recurrence after surgery, several strategies can be recommended, including a combination of medical and lifestyle modifications. Hormonal therapy may be considered to regulate hormones and reduce the chances of new cysts forming. Following a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress could significantly contribute to prevention. Managing underlying conditions such as PCOS or other hormonal disorders could be an important step.

After surgery, it is advisable to have more frequent gynaecological examinations. Regular checkups every 3 to 6 months can help detect any abnormalities or potential problems early. Additionally, eliminating unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can further improve hormonal balance and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Conclusion

Ovarian cyst recurrence can be a concerning issue for many women, especially if they have previously undergone surgery for the same concern. However, with the right care and medical treatment, the risk of its recurrence can be significantly reduced. Lifestyle adjustments, consistent monitoring, a deeper understanding of symptoms, and treatment options can play a key role in minimising complications.

If you are experiencing any reproductive health-related complications and suspect symptoms, book an appointment with Women’s Healthcare, housing specialised private gynaecologists in London. Contact them for timely evaluation, expert management, and the most appropriate gynaecological solutions tailored to your needs.