Can menopausal ovarian cysts disappear?

Ovarian cysts may disappear after menopause, but this depends on the type of cyst and the specific circumstances. Some functional cysts may disappear on their own, but if the cyst persists or there is a risk of malignancy, further investigation is needed.

Ovarian cysts are cystic structures filled with fluid or semi-solid material in the ovaries. They are most common in women of childbearing age and are usually related to the ovulation process. They are called functional cysts. However, after menopause, since the ovaries have stopped ovulating, the incidence of such functional cysts is low, and other types of cysts, including the possibility of benign tumors or malignant lesions, need to be paid attention to.

Specifically, benign cysts such as serous cystadenomas or mucinous cystadenomas are more common in postmenopausal women. They usually grow slowly and sometimes remain stable for a long time without causing symptoms. In contrast, if the cyst is accompanied by enlargement, irregular shape, or symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion occur, it is necessary to be alert to the possibility of malignant transformation, especially new cysts after menopause. Ultrasound examination and detection of tumor markers (such as CA125) can help with preliminary screening. It should be noted that some benign cysts in menopause may gradually shrink or disappear through the body's absorption process, but this situation is rare.

In the face of this problem, observing whether the cyst changes is the key. Doctors usually determine whether treatment is needed based on the size, shape and follow-up examination results of the cyst. For small cysts without symptoms, regular check-ups may be recommended; for cysts with obvious symptoms or larger sizes, imaging or pathology may be required for a clear diagnosis. In life, regular physical examinations should be maintained to avoid missing the opportunity to detect diseases early, especially for postmenopausal women, who need to pay more attention to abnormal physical conditions.