Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacks, which are formed within the ovary. Cysts, which are bigger than two centimetres, are formally diagnosed as ovarian cysts. Many ovarian cysts are functional in nature. That is, they are beginning and rarely ever cause complications. However in some cases, the cysts may develop certain complications. Risks and complications of ovarian cysts depend on the type of cyst and the stage of treatment, but they are known to have some bearing on fertility in some cases.

Some of the complications of ovarian cyst are:

Ruptured ovarian cyst:
Ovarian torsion:
Peritonitis:
Infertility:
Cancer:
This is one the most serious form of complication. Ruptured ovarian cyst can lead to internal bleeding and in some cases it can be very dangerous. Ruptured ovarian cyst can cause hemorrhage, which requires immediate medical attention. Sometimes, a twisting of the ovary, which can lead to infertility. Ovarian torsion may disturb blood supply to the ovary as well. This leads to another complication called as ovarian necrosis, which leads inflammation and septic shock.

In rare but significant instances, ovarian cysts may turn cancerous.

The patient will then require the usual cancer treatment along with surgery, where generally both the ovaries are removed.

Besides these serious complications and risks, ovarian cysts also lead to excruciating pain and hormonal imbalance. This can affect the mental and emotional well being of the patient as well. However, conventional medicine very rarely pays attention to the mental and emotional complications that may develop because of ovarian cysts. The treatment options can cause many side effects like loss of fertility, weight gain, and reoccurrence of stronger cysts.