If you’ve been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, you might be wondering whether it will affect your ability to conceive. The relationship between ovarian cysts and fertility is nuanced, and understanding the facts can help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
Understanding Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. They’re incredibly common, with most women developing at least one during their lifetime. The vast majority are harmless and resolve on their own without treatment. These are NOT the follicle that naturally develops in the course of a menstrual cycle, which reach a mature size of 2.3 cm and, after rupture becomes a corpus luteum. Such cysts are normal and sometimes confused with an abnormal cyst.
There are several types of ovarian cysts, and not all of them pose the same risk to fertility:
Follicular and Luteal phase cysts typically form during the menstrual cycle. They usually disappear within a few months and rarely affect fertility. They can lengthen the phases of the cycle. One type of luteal phase cyst is a hemorrhagic follicle, which occurs when the follicle transforms to a corpus luteum without releasing the egg.
Dermoid Cysts contain tissue such as hair, skin, or teeth. While they don’t typically cause infertility themselves, they may require surgical removal if they grow large.
Cystadenomas develop from ovarian tissue and can grow quite large, but generally don’t impact fertility unless they cause complications.
Endometriomas are cysts caused by endometriosis. These “chocolate cysts” are filled with old blood and can affect fertility, particularly if endometriosis is widespread.
PCOS (AKA PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome): In this situation, a woman’s ovaries may have small <1 cm cysts around the periphery of the ovary. They produce low levels of hormones like estrogen and male hormones that can shut down or change the menstrual cycle.
Ovarian cancer cysts: Unlike the conditions above, ovarian cancer cysts are solid masses of cancer cells. This can happen at any age, but are more common after menopause.
Can Ovarian Cysts Cause Infertility?
The short answer is that most ovarian cysts do not cause infertility. However, certain types and situations can make conception more challenging.
When Ovarian Cysts Don’t Affect Fertility
The Follicle and Corpus Luteum of the cycle (which may be called cysts on the ultrasound) are a normal part of the menstrual cycle. They indicate that ovulation is likely occurring.
When Ovarian Cysts May Impact Fertility
While most ovarian cysts won’t affect your fertility, there are specific circumstances where they can create challenges:
Follicular cysts and Luteal phase cysts that get large can be abnormal and can produce low levels of hormones that may alter or lengthen the phases of the cycle and can produce pain when they rupture. They generally resolve over several cycles, although one may need Progesterone to help resolve them. Many women conceive successfully while having functional cysts without even knowing they exist.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder characterized by multiple small cysts on the ovaries. PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility because it can prevent regular ovulation. Women with PCOS may experience irregular periods, elevated androgen levels, and difficulty conceiving without treatment.
Endometriomas associated with endometriosis can reduce ovarian reserve and egg quality. The presence of endometriosis tissue can create inflammation and scarring that interfere with ovulation, fertilization, and implantation. They also occur in women who have endometriosis, and that condition itself can lead to infertility.
Large Cysts of any type may physically block the fallopian tubes or interfere with ovulation. If a cyst grows large enough, it can distort the normal anatomy of the reproductive organs. Some cysts can cause the ovary to twist on its axis (called ovarian torsion), which is an acutely painful condition and if left untreated, will damage the ovary.
Surgical Complications from cyst removal can potentially damage healthy ovarian tissue, particularly if multiple surgeries are required. This can reduce the number of viable eggs available for ovulation.
Can You Get Pregnant with Ovarian Cysts?
Yes, many women with ovarian cysts conceive naturally. If you have a simple functional cyst, it likely won’t prevent pregnancy. However, if you’re having difficulty conceiving and have been diagnosed with cysts, it’s important to work with a fertility specialist who can:
- Determine whether the cysts are affecting your ovulation
- Identify underlying conditions like PCOS or endometriosis
- Develop a treatment plan tailored to your situation
- Monitor your ovarian function and egg quality
When to See a Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe or sudden pelvic pain
- Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Difficulty conceiving after six months to one year of trying
- Signs of hormonal imbalance, like excessive hair growth or unexplained weight gain
The Bottom Line
Will ovarian cysts cause infertility? For most women, the answer is no. Simple ovarian cysts are common and typically don’t interfere with fertility. However, certain types of cysts, particularly those associated with PCOS or endometriosis, can make conception more challenging.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst and are concerned about your fertility, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. At Couri & Smyth Health for Life, we specialize in helping women understand their reproductive health and develop personalized treatment plans that support their fertility goals.
Ready to take control of your fertility journey?
Watch out for Founder’s Video and Book a Discovery Call to get started.