Ovarian Cysts and Infertility: Is There a Link?

Ovarian cysts are often fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within the ovaries. While many ovarian cysts are benign and asymptomatic, they can sometimes cause discomfort or complications, particularly if they grow large or rupture.

While most ovarian cysts do not directly cause infertility, certain conditions associated with ovarian cysts, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may impact fertility.

What Causes Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts can arise from various causes often related to the menstrual cycle. Functional cysts, the most common type, typically develop during ovulation.

• Follicular Cysts: These occur when a follicle does not release an egg during ovulation, causing it to continue growing and form a cyst.
• Corpus Luteum Cysts: After ovulation, the follicle transforms into the corpus luteum. If the corpus luteum does not dissolve as it should, it can accumulate fluid or blood, resulting in a cyst.

Other factors contributing to ovarian cyst development include:

• Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. When this tissue attaches to the ovary, it can form cysts known as endometriomas.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder characterized by enlarged ovaries containing multiple small, immature follicles (often referred to as "cysts"). This can result in irregular menstrual cycles, hormonal imbalances, and potential fertility issues.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations or disruptions in hormone levels can interfere with ovulation, leading to the formation of functional ovarian cysts.
• Pregnancy: In some cases, a cyst forms on the ovary during early pregnancy. This is typically a functional cyst, such as a corpus luteum cyst, which supports the pregnancy by producing hormones until the placenta takes over.
• Severe Pelvic Infections: Infections that spread to the ovaries and fallopian tubes can cause abscesses or cyst-like formations, often as a complication of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Can Ovarian Cysts Affect Fertility?

The impact of ovarian cysts on fertility largely depends on their type, size, location as well as whether other underlying conditions are present. Functional cysts, such as follicular and corpus luteum cysts, are typically harmless, do not affect fertility and tend to resolve on their own.

However, certain types of cysts may affect one’s fertility in some cases. Endometriomas, for example, can impair ovarian function, while hormonal imbalances due to PCOS can lead to irregular or absent ovulation.

Persistent cysts and non-functional cysts that are large may damage the ovary or require surgical removal, which carries the risk of potentially damaging ovarian tissue.

That said, while ovarian cysts are common, only a subset of women with cysts will experience fertility problems.

How Soon After Ovarian Cyst Removal Is Pregnancy Possible?

The timeline for trying to conceive after undergoing ovarian cyst removal depends on the type of surgery performed, the woman’s rate of healing and her natural menstrual cycle. Minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopy typically allow for a quicker recovery lasting around one to three weeks. If the patient underwent open surgery, however, then she may expect a longer recovery period before it is safe to attempt pregnancy again.

For personalised guidance about ovarian cysts and infertility, please consult our gynaecologist and ovarian cyst specialist today.