Reprint of: Benign ovarian cysts

Abstract Ovarian cysts are common clinical and ultrasound findings. In premenopausal women the vast majority of ovarian masses are benign, as are many of the cysts seen in the postmenopausal patient. The overall incidence of malignancy is 1 in 1000 in a premenopausal patient and 3 in 1000 at the age of 50. The majority of ovarian cysts are incidental findings and patients are asymptomatic. Approximately 1 in 25 women will have an ovarian cyst causing symptoms at some point in their lives. Once a cyst has been diagnosed it is important to classify its features using transvaginal ultrasonography. This classification in combination with clinical features such as pain, pressure or fertility will guide management. This review will focus on three different types of common ovarian cysts and their management.