There may be a genetic link for some people who experience ovarian cysts. They can also be related to conditions like endometriosis and PCOS, which may have a genetic component.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries. They are relatively common and often cause no symptoms, so you may not even know when you have one.

There may be a genetic cause for some ovarian cysts. For example, you’re more likely to develop ovarian cysts if you have certain conditions like endometriosis, which may run in families.

If you experience frequent ovarian cysts, your doctor may recommend taking hormonal birth control.

Read on to learn more about ovarian cysts and genetics.

It’s possible that genetic factors may increase the likelihood of developing some ovarian cysts.

Hormone fluctuations can play a role in the formation of ovarian cysts. You may be more likely to develop an ovarian cyst if you inherit genetic mutations that affect your hormones.

Although there’s limited research on the topic, an older 2003 study showed that individuals with a first degree family relative with a history of dermoid cysts were at a higher likelihood of developing dermoid cysts.

Also, ovarian cysts can be related to underlying conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). While these conditions aren’t fully understood, experts think they may have a genetic component.

Different types of ovarian cysts can be divided into two larger groups: functional cysts and pathological cysts.

  • Functional cysts: These are the most common types of ovarian cysts and are related to the menstrual cycle. Two types are follicular cysts and corpus luteal cysts. These cysts develop during or after the egg release process.
  • Pathological cysts: These are not related to the menstrual cycle and are the result of unusual cell growth. The majority of pathological ovarian cysts are benign, but a small percentage of ovarian cysts are malignant. Types include endometriomas, dermoids, and cystademonas.

In addition to the reasons previously mentioned, ovarian cysts can be caused by:

  • pregnancy
  • hormone imbalances
  • fertility drugs
  • severe pelvic infections

Many small ovarian cysts go undetected unless painful symptoms develop. If you experience abdominal pain, bloating, swelling, or other potential symptoms of an ovarian cyst, your doctor may recommend an ultrasound.

Using an ultrasound, your doctor can identify an ovarian cyst’s size, shape, and location. An ultrasound can also determine whether or not the sac is fluid or solid-filled.

Depending on the ultrasound results, your doctor can order a variety of blood and hormone tests to help investigate potential causes and the cancer risk.

Many cysts require no treatment.

For small ovarian cysts, your doctor may suggest a watchful waiting approach to ensure that the cyst resolves and doesn’t grow bigger or develop concerning qualities. They may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications to help with any discomfort.

If your cyst is large, continues to grow, or has concerning properties, your doctor may recommend surgery. An ovarian cyst can be removed with a laparoscopy or a laparotomy.

A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive keyhole surgery, while a laparotomy is open surgery.

If you have large or frequent cysts, your doctor may suggest hormonal birth control to help prevent future ovarian cysts. When an underlying condition like endometriosis or PCOS is causing cysts, your doctor may recommend other treatments.

You should notify your doctor if you experience abdominal pain, swelling, bloating, or other potential symptoms of an ovarian cyst.

You should seek immediate treatment if you’re diagnosed with ovarian cysts and experience:

  • pain with fever and vomiting
  • fainting or dizziness
  • trouble breathing
  • severe abdominal pain

Learn more about the symptoms of an ovarian cyst.

Ovarian cysts are relatively common. Some ovarian cysts may have a genetic cause, but more research into this is necessary.

Ovarian cysts may also be related to underlying conditions like endometriosis and PCOS, which can have a genetic component.

If you have symptoms of an ovarian cyst, you should speak with your doctor. An ultrasound can help identify the size, shape, and location of any ovarian cyst you may have developed.