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Fertility Glossary

Ovarian cyst

A fluid-filled sac on the ovary, usually harmless.

Female fertility

Most cysts are functional and disappear within a couple of cycles. Persistent, large or complex cysts are assessed further, and surgery is weighed against the loss of healthy ovarian tissue. Sudden severe one-sided pelvic pain with vomiting needs emergency assessment because of possible torsion.

Also known as: cyst, functional cyst

Sources

  • Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) patient information

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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