There are many things that may indicate you have an ovarian cyst, yet ovarian cyst symptoms are not always present. Some women have an occasional cyst without being aware of it, if these cysts are small they may recess without pain or problem. Ovarian cyst symptoms can sometimes be difficult to recognize because they may be similar to symptoms of other conditions involving the abdomen, like appendicitis. Other conditions affect the reproductive system and have symptoms similar to an ovarian cyst. These conditions include ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis, cancer of the ovaries and pelvic inflammatory disease.

Ovarian cyst symptoms may be present to greater or lesser degree in people who have cysts. Women with ovarian cysts may also experience a different number of symptoms, depending on her body. As a whole, symptoms can include irregular menstrual cycle, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, extreme pain in the abdominal region, painful bowel movements, a feeling of fullness in the stomach or bladder, and pain during intercourse.

There are also some additional ovarian cyst symptoms that mean you need to seek emergency medical care. These can occur if an ovarian cyst suddenly ruptures, which can be life threatening. Symptoms of potential rupture include severe pain in the abdomen, which may be accompanied by vomiting or nausea and fever. A feeling of weakness or being lightheaded, and trouble breathing is also commonly experienced with ruptured cysts. Your skin may be cold or clammy and the pain in your abdomen may come in spasms or waves.

Most ovarian cyst symptoms that are not included in the list of emergency symptoms indicate that you should see your doctor soon. If you think have an ovarian cyst, call your doctor, who will probably schedule an appointment for you right away. Some cysts are not treated though you may need to have a couple of gynecological exams over a few months to be sure any cyst has recessed. Other cysts do need to be removed before they can rupture and create life-threatening emergencies.

Though many cysts are benign, a doctor may recommend removal or biopsy of especially large cysts to rule out ovarian cancer. It does bear repeating that most women unknowingly have cysts at one time or another. Having ovarian cyst symptoms doesn’t mean you should be overly concerned. It just means you should see your doctor promptly to make sure you get proper medical advice and care.