Last Updated on December 5, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that grow on or inside the ovaries. They usually don’t cause symptoms, but large cysts can lead to discomfort, pain, and changes in bowel habits. Some women also experience digestive issues, such as diarrhea, as a result of ovarian cysts. When an ovarian cyst grows, bleeds, or twists, it can put pressure on nearby organs, causing bowel changes like diarrhea. It’s important to understand how ovarian cysts and digestive symptoms are connected to manage health properly. While many women rely on Pap smears for routine cervical cancer screening, it’s important to know that a Pap smear and ovarian cancer detection are not directly linked, as Pap smears primarily screen for cervical cancer and are not designed to detect ovarian cancer.

Key Takeaways

• Ovarian cysts can cause changes in bowel habits.
• Large or ruptured cysts are more likely to lead to digestive symptoms.
• Understanding the connection between ovarian cysts and bowel changes can help in managing symptoms.

Understanding Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are common in women, often without them knowing. These are fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries. They come in different sizes and types.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

There are many types of ovarian cysts. Functional cysts are linked to the menstrual cycle. Endometriomas are filled with old blood and linked to endometriosis. Dermoid cysts are benign and can have hair, skin, or teeth inside.

Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Some ovarian cysts don’t show symptoms. But, others can cause pelvic pain, bloating, or swelling. The symptoms depend on the cyst’s size and type.

Prevalence and Risk Factors

About 8% of women with regular periods and ovarian cysts need treatment. Hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, and a history of cysts increase the risk.

Type of Cyst	Description	Common Symptoms
Functional Cysts	Related to menstrual cycle	Pelvic pain, bloating
Endometriomas	Filled with old blood	Pelvic pain, heavy periods
Dermoid Cysts	Benign tumors with tissue	Abdominal swelling, pain

The Connection Between Ovarian Cyst and Diarrhea

Ovarian cysts and diarrhea are linked in complex ways. These fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries can affect our digestion. They do this through several mechanisms.

Direct Physical Impact on the Digestive System

Big ovarian cysts can press on nearby organs like the bladder and large intestine. This pressure can change how we go to the bathroom. It might make us have diarrhea or constipation. This shows how ovarian cysts can affect our bowel habits.

Hormonal Influences on Bowel Function

Hormonal shifts from ovarian cysts can also mess with our bowel movements. The hormonal changes can slow down or speed up our gut’s movement. This can cause symptoms like diarrhea. It’s important to understand how hormones play a role in managing these symptoms.

Research on the Relationship

Studies have shed light on the connection between ovarian cysts and digestive issues. They found that women with these cysts often face digestive problems, including diarrhea. This is due to both the cyst’s physical presence and hormonal changes. More research is needed to grasp this connection fully and find better ways to manage symptoms.

In summary, ovarian cysts and diarrhea are connected through physical effects and hormonal changes. Knowing these factors helps us tackle symptoms and improve life quality for those affected.

Ovarian Cysts Pressing on Intestines

Ovarian cysts can grow and press against the intestines. This can cause changes in how you go to the bathroom.

Anatomical Relationship Between Ovaries and Bowel

The ovaries are near the intestines in the pelvic area. This close location means a cyst can put pressure on the bowel. This can cause discomfort and change your bowel habits.

How Size and Location Affect Symptoms

The size and where the cyst is matter a lot. Bigger cysts can press harder on the intestines, causing pain. The cyst’s location affects which part of the bowel it presses on.

Cyst Size	Potential Impact on Intestines
Small (<3 cm)	Minimal pressure, possibly no significant impact
Medium (3-6 cm)	Moderate pressure, possible discomfort
Large (>6 cm)	Significant pressure, likely to cause noticeable symptoms

Rectal Pressure and Discomfort

When a cyst presses on the rectum, it can cause discomfort. This can lead to changes in bowel habits, like diarrhea or constipation. It may also cause pain when you go to the bathroom.

Common Digestive Symptoms Associated with Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts can cause many digestive problems. These issues can really affect a woman’s life. The symptoms are linked to the cyst’s size, location, and how big it is.

Diarrhea and Bowel Changes

One common symptom is diarrhea and changes in bowel habits. The cyst can put pressure on nearby organs. This can make bowel movements irregular, leading to diarrhea or constipation.

Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort

Bloating and abdominal discomfort are also common. The cysts can make the belly feel swollen and sore. This discomfort can be constant or change with the menstrual cycle.

Nausea and Upset Stomach

Nausea and an upset stomach are symptoms some women face. These can be due to hormonal changes or the physical pressure on the stomach and intestines.

Symptom	Description	Possible Cause
Diarrhea and Bowel Changes	Irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation	Pressure on surrounding organs
Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort	Feeling of swelling and tenderness in the abdomen	Size and location of the cyst
Nausea and Upset Stomach	Nausea, feeling of an upset stomach	Hormonal changes or physical pressure

The Diarrhea or Constipation Cycle with Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts can mess with normal bowel function. This leads to a cycle of diarrhea and constipation in some women. The cyst’s presence and hormonal changes play a big role in this.

Alternating Bowel Patterns

Women with ovarian cysts might see their bowel patterns change. They might go from diarrhea to constipation, or the other way around. This back-and-forth can be hard to deal with and affect daily life a lot.

Relationship to Menstrual Cycle

The symptoms of ovarian cysts, like bowel changes, can tie into the menstrual cycle. Hormonal shifts during the cycle can make symptoms better or worse. It’s key for women to keep track of their symptoms and their cycle.

Managing Inconsistent Symptoms

Handling the diarrhea and constipation cycle needs a few steps. Changing your diet, like eating more fiber, drinking water, and managing stress can help. Knowing how ovarian cysts affect bowel function can help women manage their symptoms better.

Being aware of the possible changes in bowel patterns and their link to the menstrual cycle can help. Women can take steps to manage their symptoms and improve their life quality.

Distinguishing Between Ovarian Cyst Symptoms and IBS

It’s hard to tell if you have an ovarian cyst or IBS because they share symptoms. Both can make you feel uncomfortable and affect your daily life.

Overlapping Symptoms

Ovarian cysts and IBS can both cause bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. These symptoms can confuse you and delay finding out what’s wrong. For example, if you have diarrhea or constipation, you might think it’s IBS. But it could actually be an ovarian cyst.

Key Differences to Note

Ovarian cysts and IBS affect the belly in different ways. Ovarian cysts can cause pelvic pain, mostly during your period. They can also lead to serious problems if they burst or twist. IBS symptoms, on the other hand, usually deal with bowel movements and what you eat.

When Both Conditions Coexist

Sometimes, women have both ovarian cysts and IBS at the same time. This makes it even harder to figure out what’s going on. A detailed medical check-up is key to find out what’s causing your symptoms and how to treat them.

It’s important to know the differences between ovarian cysts and IBS to manage your symptoms better.

When a Ruptured Ovarian Cyst Causes Digestive Issues

A ruptured ovarian cyst is a serious medical emergency. It can lead to sudden and severe symptoms, including digestive problems. It’s important to understand the symptoms and seek immediate medical help.

Acute Symptoms Following Rupture

When an ovarian cyst ruptures, it can cause sudden and severe symptoms. These may include:

• Sharp, intense abdominal pain that may radiate to the back or legs
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting due to internal bleeding
• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation

Medical professionals say a ruptured ovarian cyst can cause a range of symptoms. This is because of irritation of the surrounding tissues and the risk of internal bleeding. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to manage these symptoms effectively.

Inflammatory Responses

The rupture of an ovarian cyst can trigger an inflammatory response in the body. This inflammation can make digestive issues worse, leading to discomfort. Managing this inflammatory response is a key part of treating the condition.

Emergency Warning Signs

It’s important to recognize the emergency warning signs of a ruptured ovarian cyst. These include:

1. Severe abdominal pain that worsens over time
2. Heavy vaginal bleeding
3. Signs of shock, such as pale skin, rapid heartbeat, or shallow breathing
4. Fever above 101.5 °F (38.6 °C)

Immediate medical attention is required if any of these symptoms are present. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications, including infection, further internal bleeding, or even death.

In conclusion, a ruptured ovarian cyst is a serious condition that can cause significant digestive issues among other symptoms. Recognizing the acute symptoms and emergency warning signs is key for timely medical intervention.

Diagnosing the Cause of Digestive Symptoms

Getting a correct diagnosis is key for women with digestive issues linked to ovarian cysts. Doctors use a mix of medical history, physical exams, and tests to find out if you have ovarian cysts.

Medical Tests and Examinations

A pelvic ultrasound is a main tool for spotting cysts on the ovaries. It’s a safe test that shows the cyst’s size, where it is, and what it looks like.

• Pelvic Exam: A healthcare provider does a pelvic exam to look for any odd feelings or lumps.
• Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans might also be used to look at the cyst and the area around it more closely.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests can check for signs of infection, inflammation, or other issues that could be causing your symptoms.

Ruling Out Other Conditions

It’s important to tell the difference between ovarian cysts and other problems that might cause similar symptoms. This means checking for other possible causes through tests and ruling them out.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are examples of conditions that might have similar symptoms. So, figuring out what’s causing your symptoms is key.

Ovarian Cyst vs. Ovarian Cancer Bowel Changes

Telling ovarian cysts apart from ovarian cancer is a big part of diagnosing. Both can affect your bowel, but some signs might point to cancer, like solid parts in the cyst or fluid buildup.

Doctors use a combination of exams and tests to find out what’s causing your symptoms. This helps them create a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Treatment Options for Ovarian Cyst-Related Digestive Issues

Dealing with digestive problems linked to ovarian cysts needs a mix of treatments. This includes easing symptoms and treating the cyst itself. The right treatment depends on the cyst’s size, type, and how bad the symptoms are.

Managing Diarrhea and Bowel Changes

Diarrhea and bowel changes from ovarian cysts can be handled in different ways. Medications like antidiarrheal drugs can help with diarrhea. Keeping a food diary can also show which foods make symptoms worse.

Addressing the Underlying Cyst

Treatment for the cyst itself might include surgery, hormonal therapies, or just watching it. Surgery is often needed for big or complex cysts. Hormonal treatments, like birth control pills, can help manage symptoms and shrink the cyst.

Dietary Modifications and Supplements

Changing your diet can help a lot with ovarian cyst digestive issues. Eating a balanced diet full of fiber can keep bowel movements regular. Probiotics supplements can also help keep your gut healthy.

Treatment Approach	Description	Benefits
Surgical Intervention	Removal of the ovarian cyst	Definitive treatment for large or complex cysts
Hormonal Therapies	Use of hormonal medications to manage symptoms	Reduces cyst size and alleviates symptoms
Dietary Modifications	Changes in diet to manage digestive symptoms	Helps regulate bowel movements and reduce discomfort

When to See a Doctor About Ovarian Cyst Bowel Problems

Ovarian cysts can cause many bowel symptoms. It’s important to know when to see a doctor. If you think your bowel problems might be from an ovarian cyst, watch your symptoms closely.

Red Flag Symptoms

Some symptoms mean you need to see a doctor right away. These include:

• Severe abdominal pain that doesn’t go away
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge
• Significant changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation
• Fever or chills with bowel symptoms

Preparing for Your Appointment

Before your doctor visit, do the following:

1. Keep a symptom journal to track when your bowel symptoms occur
2. Gather any relevant medical records or test results
3. List any medications or supplements you’re currently taking

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider

At your appointment, ask these questions:

• What are the possible causes of my bowel symptoms?
• Are my symptoms related to an ovarian cyst or another condition?
• What treatment options are available for my specific situation?

Being prepared and informed helps you talk better with your healthcare provider about your ovarian cyst bowel problems.

Conclusion

Ovarian cysts can lead to digestive problems like diarrhea. The link between ovarian cysts and bowel habits is complex. It involves physical impact, hormonal changes, and rupture.

It’s important to recognize the signs and understand the connection. This is key for getting medical help on time.

Managing symptoms from ovarian cysts needs a full approach. This includes treating the cyst, changing diet, and using supplements. If you have ongoing or severe digestive issues, see a doctor.

They can check for other conditions and find the right treatment. Knowing about ovarian cysts and digestive issues helps you manage symptoms better. It lets you take charge of your health.

By understanding the connection, you can get the right medical care. This includes treating ovarian cyst-related digestive problems like diarrhea. It helps manage bowel symptoms effectively.

FAQ

References

1. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. (2022). Management of suspected ovarian masses in premenopausal women. https://www.rcog.org.uk/guidance/browse-all-guidance/green-top-guidelines/management-of-suspected-ovarian-masses-in-premenopausal-women-green-top-guideline-no-62/