Gynecology › Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts: diagnosis and follow-up in Busan

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on or in the ovary. Most are harmless “functional” cysts that come and go with the menstrual cycle, and many are found by chance on an ultrasound. Some need follow-up or treatment. A Busan OB/GYN clinic can tell you what type you have and what to do next.

Common types of ovarian cyst

  • Functional cysts (follicular and corpus luteum cysts): form during normal ovulation and usually disappear within one to three cycles.
  • Hemorrhagic cysts: functional cysts with bleeding inside, which can be painful but often resolve.
  • Endometriomas (“chocolate cysts”): linked to endometriosis .
  • Dermoid cysts (mature teratomas): benign growths that can contain tissue such as fat or hair.
  • Cystadenomas: benign cysts that can grow large.
  • Polycystic-appearing ovaries: many small follicles, seen in PCOS ; these are not true cysts.

A small proportion of ovarian masses, mostly after menopause, are cancerous, which is why follow-up matters.

Symptoms

Many cysts cause no symptoms. Others can cause dull or sharp pain on one side, bloating, pressure, pain during sex, or changes to periods.

What the visit involves

A transvaginal ultrasound is the main test; a transabdominal scan is an option if you prefer. The doctor will look at the cyst's size and features. A pregnancy test is common, and blood tests such as CA-125 may be ordered in some situations, though this marker can also be raised by benign conditions. Simple functional cysts are usually rechecked with a repeat scan after a few weeks or cycles.

Treatment

Many cysts need only watchful waiting. Pain relief and sometimes hormonal contraception (to prevent new functional cysts) may be suggested. Surgery, usually laparoscopic, is considered for cysts that are large, persistent, painful, have concerning features, or cause twisting. Surgery is typically done at a women's or university hospital.

Cost and insurance

For people enrolled in Korea's National Health Insurance (NHI), diagnostic ultrasound, follow-up scans and medically needed surgery are partly covered. Without NHI you pay the full fee, which can be high for surgery; ask for a written estimate. See our cost guides .

Tips for foreigners

Ask for a copy of your ultrasound report with the cyst size so follow-up scans can be compared, even at a different clinic. Bring your ARC or passport and call ahead. See our international patients guide .

Related

Elsewhere in Korea

When to get help sooner

Go to an ER for sudden, severe one-sided pelvic pain, especially with nausea, vomiting, fever, fainting or a fast heartbeat. These can signal a ruptured cyst, ovarian torsion or an ectopic pregnancy.

OB/GYN clinics in Busan for ovarian cysts

Any general OB/GYN clinic can scan and follow up ovarian cysts and refer you for surgery if needed. Tap a name for the full listing. Features are shown only where a public listing confirms them.

Clinic Area Phone Listed features
Roaen OB/GYN Clinic Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) 051-804-3000 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Centum Eroom Women's Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-758-8275 Sat, Fertility
Eve & Adam Women's Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-743-7585 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Ms For You Women's Clinic Jwa-dong (Jangsan) 051-636-7975 Sat, Evenings
Dongnae Bom OB/GYN Clinic Oncheon-dong 051-711-2060 Sat, Evenings
Seoul Samsung OB/GYN Clinic Yeonsan-dong 051-714-3500 Sat
Jini OB/GYN Clinic Jangjeon-dong (Pusan Natl Univ) 051-582-8275 Sat, Evenings
Mari Women's Clinic Daeyeon-dong (Kyungsung-Pukyong Univ) 051-626-1009 Sat, STD tests
She's Bon OB/GYN Clinic Suyeong / Millak area Not listed Sat, STD tests
Rose Women's Clinic Nampo-dong 051-245-7911 Sat, Evenings
L Women's Clinic Hadan-dong 051-207-2727 Sat, Evenings, STD tests

Ovarian cyst questions

  • Will my cyst go away on its own?

    Most functional cysts resolve within a few menstrual cycles. Your doctor will usually repeat the ultrasound to confirm. Endometriomas and dermoid cysts do not usually go away on their own.

  • What is ovarian torsion?

    Torsion is when the ovary twists on its blood supply, often because of a cyst. It causes sudden severe pain, usually with nausea, and is an emergency needing surgery. Go to an ER right away.

  • Does an ovarian cyst mean cancer?

    The great majority of ovarian cysts, especially before menopause, are benign. Doctors use ultrasound features, age and sometimes blood tests to decide who needs further testing or surgery.

  • Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?

    Functional cysts usually do not. Endometriomas, PCOS and surgery on the ovaries can affect fertility, so mention any pregnancy plans to your doctor.