Yes, an ovarian cyst can cause lower back pain, but it is not the most common symptom. Most ovarian cysts cause no symptoms at all and disappear on their own within a few months. When a cyst does cause trouble, usually because it is large, the typical complaint is pain or pressure low in the tummy on one side. A dull ache in the lower back and thighs is a recognised but less common symptom.
What ovarian cyst back pain feels like
It is usually a dull, heavy ache low in the back, often on the same side as the cyst, and it may spread into the thighs. It tends to come with pelvic discomfort and does not change much when you bend or twist, which is different from a strained back muscle.
Back pain on its own, without any pelvic symptoms, is far more likely to come from the muscles, joints or discs of the spine than from an ovary.
Other symptoms of an ovarian cyst
- pain, pressure or swelling low in the tummy on one side, which can be sharp or dull and may come and go
- bloating or a feeling of fullness
- pain during sex
- changes to your periods, or painful periods
- needing to urinate more often, or difficulty emptying your bladder or bowel fully
When it is an emergency
A cyst can occasionally burst, or cause the ovary to twist and cut off its own blood supply. Call 10177, or 112 from a cellphone, or go to the nearest emergency unit if you have:
- sudden, severe pain in the pelvis or tummy
- pain with fever or vomiting
- faintness, dizziness or weakness
- rapid breathing
Types of ovarian cyst
| Type | What it is |
|---|---|
| Functional cysts | The most common kind. They form as part of the menstrual cycle and usually go away within a few months without treatment. |
| Dermoid cysts | Made up of different kinds of tissue. Usually harmless, but they can grow large. |
| Cystadenomas | Fluid-filled cysts that grow on the surface of the ovary and can become very large. |
| Endometriomas | Cysts caused by endometriosis, where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows on the ovary. |
The great majority of ovarian cysts are not cancer. Cysts that appear after the menopause are more likely to need further tests.
How ovarian cysts are diagnosed
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine you. The main test is an ultrasound scan, usually done with a small probe placed in the vagina, which shows the size and type of cyst. A blood test may be added in some cases.
Ovarian cyst back pain treatment
- Watchful waiting. Most cysts are simply monitored with a repeat scan after a few weeks or months, because they often disappear on their own.
- Pain relief. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which painkiller suits you. A warm bath or a heat pad on the lower back or tummy can ease the ache.
- Hormonal contraception. This does not shrink an existing cyst, but your doctor may suggest it to reduce the chance of new ones forming.
- Surgery. A cyst that is large, causing symptoms, not going away or looks unusual on a scan may be removed, most often by keyhole surgery. Surgeons aim to preserve the ovary and your fertility wherever possible.
Other causes of pain in the lower back and pelvis
Several conditions can cause a similar combination of symptoms, including a kidney stone or kidney infection, a urinary infection, period pain, endometriosis, fibroids and pelvic inflammatory disease. If you could be pregnant, pain low on one side needs to be checked urgently to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. Our article on the causes of stomach pain covers these in more detail.
When to see a doctor
- Pelvic or lower back pain that lasts more than a few days or keeps returning.
- Bloating that does not go away.
- Pain during sex.
- A change in your periods.
- Any of these symptoms after the menopause.
This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your doctor.
Medically reviewed by the ASAIPA clinical team.
