Ovarian Cyst Aspiration

Information

Ovarian cysts are a common occurrence and arise when a follicle containing an egg fails to rupture during ovulation and instead fills with fluid, or when a follicle ruptures and then fills again. In most cases, a cyst causes no problems and resolves on its own over time. However, some cysts grow large enough to cause discomfort or pose a risk to a woman's fertility and health. In those cases, aspiration (a procedure in which the cyst is punctured and drained) is the most appropriate course of action.

When is ovarian cyst aspiration recommended

A cyst is typically detected during a routine ultrasound examination or one prompted by symptoms in the ovarian area. The most common type is a functional cyst, which forms from a follicle or corpus luteum, contains only fluid and can grow to several centimetres in size. Less common are endometriotic cysts, which contain a small amount of endometrial tissue that bleeds into the cyst during menstruation and fills it with blood, often causing significant pain. Based on the ultrasound findings and your medical history, your doctor will assess the size and position of the cyst and any associated risks, and may recommend aspiration. When a cyst is painful or restricting normal activity, aspiration is usually the quickest and most effective solution.

How is ovarian cyst aspiration performed

The procedure is guided by ultrasound throughout. Using the ultrasound image, the doctor locates the cyst and inserts a fine aspiration needle through the vagina, punctures the cyst wall and draws out its contents. In the case of endometriotic cysts, which occur less frequently, the fluid may be too thick to aspirate and additional instruments may be needed to remove the contents.

Ovarian cyst aspiration is a straightforward outpatient procedure carried out in our procedure room. Before the procedure, your doctor will explain exactly what to expect and discuss the options for analgosedation, a form of pain management used during the procedure, and give you all the information you need to prepare. The procedure itself does not take long, and after a short rest at the clinic you are free to go home. If analgosedation is used, we recommend bringing someone with you and arranging alternative transport, as driving afterwards is not advisable.