Overview

Sometimes a sac forms on the surface of a woman's ovary. When the sac swells up with fluid, it forms a cyst. If the cyst bleeds, it is called a hemorrhagic (say "heh-muh-RA-jick") ovarian cyst. If the cyst breaks open, blood and fluid spill out into the lower belly and pelvis.

You may not have symptoms from the cyst. But if it is large, or if it twists or breaks open, you may have pain or other problems. You may feel pain from the cyst or have symptoms from losing blood.

Your doctor may use a pelvic ultrasound to see if you have a cyst. Blood tests can help your doctor tell if the cyst is bleeding or you have lost a lot of blood.

Treatment depends on your symptoms. If they are mild, your doctor may suggest carefully watching your symptoms and doing blood tests again. But if you have a cyst that is very large, bleeds a lot, or causes other problems, your doctor may suggest surgery to control the bleeding or to remove the cyst. If the bleeding is heavy, you may also need treatment to replace the blood.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Use heat, such as a warm water bottle, a heating pad set on low, or a warm bath, to relax tense muscles and relieve cramping.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.