What Is a Ruptured Ovarian Cyst?

Unfortunately, complications can arise because of ovarian cysts. An example is a ruptured ovarian cyst, wherein the ovarian cyst bursts and bleeds within the pelvis as it grows larger.^1,2 Although a ruptured ovarian cyst won’t always trigger symptoms, especially if the cyst is small,³ severe bleeding and pelvic pain may occur, so it’s important to have the cyst/s treated immediately.⁴ Continue reading about what to expect after an ovarian cyst ruptures.

Symptoms of a Ruptured Ovarian Cyst

One-sided and sudden pelvic pain is a major symptom of a ruptured ovarian cyst. The pain develops during or after strenuous exercise or sexual intercourse. Dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath and increased heart rate may also occur if the ovarian cyst causes heavy bleeding. The said bleeding can also raise a woman's risk for infection and result in fever and chills.⁵

Patients are recommended to seek medical attention and consult a gynecologist right away if they experience intense pain or any of the other aforementioned indicators.⁶

Ruptured ovarian cysts are known to have similar indicators to appendicitis, diverticulitis or kidney stones. As such, numerous tests may be conducted, depending on the patient's condition, to rule out these other conditions that mimic cysts. In some cases, a patient can undergo a pregnancy test to rule out an ectopic pregnancy, or the gynecologist will perform a pelvic exam to rule out pelvic inflammatory disease.^7,8

Treatment for an Ovarian Cyst That Ruptures

Assuming that a woman's blood counts and vitals are stable, no treatment is required for a ruptured ovarian cyst, although a patient will be advised to rest until the symptoms resolve and the cyst fluid is reabsorbed in the body. The recovery period is expected to last a few days. In some cases, a woman may be given intravenous (IV) pain medicines, especially if she needs to have fluids or blood replaced because of internal bleeding.^9,10,11

However, if the cyst continues to bleed and/or triggers heavy bleeding, the patient might need to be hospitalized and/or undergo surgery. A procedure can also be recommended if the ruptured cyst causes internal bleeding or is suspected to be a sign of cancer.¹²

A surgery for a ruptured ovarian cyst may involve the surgeon making an incision or cut in the abdomen while the patient is under anesthesia. The surgeon will control the bleeding and discard blood clots or fluid. Afterward, the cyst or even the entire ovary can be removed.¹³

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