What causes ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are caused by hormonal imbalances that disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. Low progesterone levels prevent the proper development and release of eggs from follicles, causing these fluid-filled sacs to persist on the ovaries. Other factors include conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and pregnancy, which can all affect hormone production and lead to cyst formation.

What is the best test for ovarian cysts?

The Progesterone test is the most important blood test for ovarian cysts because it measures the hormone levels that regulate your menstrual cycle and ovulation. Low progesterone is a key factor in cyst formation, as it prevents follicles from properly maturing and releasing eggs. While ultrasound imaging diagnoses the cysts themselves, the Progesterone test identifies the underlying hormonal imbalance that contributes to their development. Testing progesterone helps your doctor understand whether hormonal factors are playing a role and guides treatment strategies to prevent future cysts from forming.

When should I get tested for ovarian cysts?

You should get tested if you experience pelvic pain or pressure, irregular or painful periods, bloating or abdominal swelling, or pain during intercourse. Testing is also important if you have difficulty getting pregnant, as hormonal imbalances that cause cysts can affect fertility. Women with PCOS or a history of ovarian cysts should monitor their progesterone levels regularly to prevent recurrence.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

Most ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and disappear on their own. When symptoms occur, you might notice dull or sharp pelvic pain on one side, bloating or swelling in your abdomen, and pain during your period or intercourse. Some women experience frequent urination or difficulty emptying their bladder completely. Sudden, severe abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting can indicate a ruptured or twisted cyst, which requires immediate medical attention.

Who is at risk for ovarian cysts?

Women of reproductive age are most at risk for developing ovarian cysts, especially those with irregular menstrual cycles or hormonal imbalances. PCOS affects up to 10% of women and significantly increases cyst risk. Women taking fertility medications that stimulate ovulation, those with endometriosis, and anyone with a previous history of ovarian cysts face higher risk. Pregnancy can also cause functional cysts to form in early stages.

What happens if ovarian cysts are left untreated?

Most ovarian cysts resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles without causing problems. However, untreated cysts can grow larger and cause persistent pelvic pain, pressure on surrounding organs, and painful intercourse. Large cysts can rupture, causing sudden severe pain and internal bleeding, or twist the ovary (ovarian torsion), cutting off blood supply and potentially requiring emergency surgery. Chronic hormonal imbalances that cause recurring cysts can also affect fertility and increase the risk of developing PCOS.

Can ovarian cysts be diagnosed with a blood test?

Ovarian cysts cannot be diagnosed with blood tests alone—they require imaging studies like pelvic ultrasound for definitive diagnosis. However, blood tests play an important supporting role by measuring hormonal factors that contribute to cyst formation. The Progesterone test helps identify hormonal imbalances that make you more prone to developing cysts. Blood tests can also help determine whether a cyst might be cancerous, though most ovarian cysts in premenopausal women are benign and functional.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

Treatment depends on the cyst size, type, symptoms, and your age. Many functional cysts resolve on their own within 6-8 weeks and only require watchful waiting with follow-up ultrasounds. Birth control pills can prevent new cysts from forming by regulating hormones and stopping ovulation. Large, persistent, or symptomatic cysts may require surgical removal through laparoscopy or, in more serious cases, open surgery. Progesterone supplementation may help balance hormones and reduce the likelihood of future cyst development.

How can I prevent ovarian cysts?

Hormonal birth control pills are the most effective prevention method, as they stop ovulation and regulate your menstrual cycle, preventing functional cysts from forming. Maintaining a healthy weight helps balance hormones naturally, as excess body fat can increase estrogen levels and disrupt ovulation. Managing PCOS through diet, exercise, and medication reduces cyst formation. Regular gynecological exams allow for early detection and monitoring of any developing cysts before they become problematic.

What natural remedies help with ovarian cysts?

While natural remedies cannot cure ovarian cysts, some approaches may help manage symptoms and support hormonal balance. Applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen can relieve pelvic pain and cramping. Herbal teas like chamomile and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce discomfort. Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids supports hormone regulation, while reducing processed foods and sugar can help manage insulin resistance associated with PCOS. Regular exercise and stress management through yoga or meditation also support overall hormonal health.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

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Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

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Ovarian Cysts Blood Test | Private MD Labs

Ovarian Cysts Blood Test

What is Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within the ovaries. They form when hormonal imbalances disrupt the normal ovarian cycle, particularly when low progesterone levels prevent proper follicle development. The Progesterone test is the most important test for assessing hormonal factors that contribute to ovarian cyst formation.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 29, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

support@privatemdlabs.com