Functional ovarian cysts usually don't need treatment. Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may help make cycles normal and decrease the development of functional ovarian cysts.

Simple ovarian cysts that are larger than 5 - 10 centimeters and complex ovarian cysts that don't go away should be removed with surgery (laparoscopy or exploratory laparotomy).

The doctor may recommend other treatments if a disorder, such as polycystic ovary disease, is causing the ovarian cysts.

Functional ovarian cysts usually disappear within 8 - 12 weeks without treatment. Some nonfunctional ovarian cysts must be treated to go away.

Complications have to do with the condition causing the cysts. Complications can occur with cysts that:

• Bleed
• Break open
• Show signs of changes that could be cancer
• Twist

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of an ovarian cyst.