Ovarian cysts · Help and support
Help with understanding your ovarian cyst appointment
Your GP and gynaecology team can explain your scan results, the choices available and the next steps. Ask them to show you on the model what your results mean.
Open the explorer Read the guide
If you feel unwell or you are worried, ask a pharmacist or contact your GP. For urgent help, call NHS 111, or use NHS 111 online (111.nhs.uk) or the NHS App. In an emergency, call 999. For health information, see the NHS website (nhs.uk) or the NHS App.
Your GP and gynaecology team can explain your scan results, the choices available and the next steps. If you have a named nurse or doctor to contact, keep their name and direct number somewhere easy to find.
Someone to talk to
Endometriosis UK
A charity with information and support for people with endometriosis, including endometriosis cysts (endometriomas).
endometriosis-uk.org
Words you may hear
- Ovarian cyst
- A sac on or in an ovary, usually filled with fluid.
- Simple cyst
- A cyst with a thin, smooth wall, filled only with clear fluid. Many go away on their own.
- Functional cyst
- A simple cyst that forms as part of the monthly cycle and often goes away within a few months.
- Dermoid cyst
- A cyst that can contain tissue such as fat, hair or skin. Also called a mature teratoma.
- Endometrioma
- A cyst caused by endometriosis, usually filled with old blood. Sometimes called a chocolate cyst.
- Endometriosis
- A condition where tissue like the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as on the ovaries.
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- An ultrasound scan where a small probe is gently placed in the vagina, to see the ovaries clearly.
- Laparoscopy
- Keyhole surgery using a thin camera through small cuts in the tummy.
- Ovarian cystectomy
- An operation to remove a cyst and keep the ovary.
- Oophorectomy
- An operation to remove an ovary. A salpingo-oophorectomy also removes the fallopian tube on that side.
Trusted information
NHS: ovarian cyst
Symptoms, tests and treatment for ovarian cysts.
NHS 111 online
Help if you are worried about symptoms and are not sure what to do.
NHS: endometriosis
About endometriosis, which can cause endometriosis cysts (endometriomas).
Endometriosis UK
Information and support for people with endometriosis.
The explorer is a simplified illustration for a conversation with your team. It cannot interpret your report, make a diagnosis or tell you which treatment is right.