What Is a Hemorrhagic Cyst on Ovary and How to Treat It
Discovering an ovarian cyst during a women’s health exam can feel concerning, especially when the term hemorrhagic cyst is mentioned. The good news is that most of these cysts are benign (noncancerous) and often resolve on their own. Still, knowing what they are, how they form, and what treatments are available can help you feel informed and reassured.
What Is a Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst?
A hemorrhagic ovarian cyst develops when a small blood vessel within a functional cyst (like a follicular or corpus luteum cyst) ruptures, leading to bleeding inside the cyst.
These cysts are common among women of reproductive age and are often detected during wellness exams or imaging studies. In many cases, they disappear naturally within a few weeks.
You can read about related gynecological conditions in our health blogs, such as normocytic anemia and rare mental disorders.
Causes of Hemorrhagic Cysts
Hemorrhagic cysts usually form as part of the natural menstrual cycle. Some possible causes include:
- Rupture of small blood vessels in a functional cyst – When a follicular or corpus luteum cyst forms, a tiny blood vessel inside it can break, leading to bleeding and clotting within the cyst.
- Hormonal fluctuations during ovulation – Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels can influence cyst development and sometimes trigger internal bleeding.
- Physical activity or abdominal strain – Intense exercise, heavy lifting, or even sudden movements may increase pressure on the ovaries, contributing to the rupture of delicate blood vessels.
- Minor trauma to the pelvic area – Though less common, even mild abdominal trauma or strain can occasionally lead to bleeding in an existing ovarian cyst.
- Underlying health conditions – Women with bleeding disorders, clotting abnormalities, or other gynecological issues may be slightly more prone to developing hemorrhagic cysts.
For patients with more complex medical histories, your provider may also suggest additional lab services or healthcare consultations.
Symptoms to Watch For
Not all hemorrhagic ovarian cysts cause symptoms — many are discovered accidentally during routine women’s health exams or imaging. However, when symptoms do arise, they often depend on the woman’s age, reproductive stage, and whether the cyst ruptures or grows larger.
In Women of Reproductive Age (Teens to 40s)
Since hemorrhagic cysts usually form during the menstrual cycle, symptoms are more common in women between 15 and 45 years old. Typical signs include:
- Sudden or sharp pelvic pain, often on one side of the lower abdomen, especially around ovulation or shortly after.
- Abdominal bloating or fullness, caused by a cyst putting pressure on nearby organs.
- Irregular periods or spotting, due to hormone fluctuations related to cyst formation.
- Pain during intercourse, particularly with deeper penetration, when pressure affects the cyst.
When a Cyst Ruptures (Any Age in Reproductive Years)
A ruptured hemorrhagic cyst can cause:
- Severe, sudden pelvic pain
- Nausea, dizziness, or lightheadedness
- Fainting in extreme cases if there is significant internal bleeding
Diagnosis
Doctors typically diagnose hemorrhagic cysts with:
- Pelvic ultrasound – showing blood flow or clotting patterns inside the cyst
This helps doctors determine whether the cyst is simple, complex, or at risk of rupture. - Physical exam – checking for tenderness or pelvic masses
It can reveal swelling, abnormal growth, or signs of internal bleeding. - Lab tests – ruling out other causes of pain or bleeding
These may include hormone levels, pregnancy tests, or blood counts for anemia.
If needed, your doctor may recommend further procedures such as minor surgeries or a scalp biopsy in unrelated conditions, showing the broad scope of diagnostic care available.
Treatment Options
1. Observation and Monitoring
Most hemorrhagic cysts resolve on their own within 6–8 weeks. Your provider may recommend follow-up ultrasounds through outpatient care services.
2. Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relievers and lifestyle changes can help. Sometimes, IV fluid therapy or joint injection services are recommended for other painful conditions, emphasizing how personalized treatment is.
3. Hormonal Birth Control
Oral contraceptives may be prescribed to regulate cycles and reduce the risk of future cysts.
4. Surgical Intervention (Rare)
If the cyst is large, persistent, or ruptures causing internal bleeding, minimally invasive surgery may be required. This is similar to how other outpatient treatments like hemorrhoid banding or skin cancer excision are performed in a safe, controlled setting.