Updated June 18, 2026

Ovarian cysts—small, fluid‑filled sacs—are very common, and most people don’t notice any symptoms at all. Ovarian cysts are typically harmless, but in some cases, they can rupture (break open). Caroline Campbell, assistant professor of gynecology and obstetrics, discusses the risks associated with a ruptured ovarian cyst. 

A ruptured ovarian cyst isn’t automatically a life-threatening condition. Most of the time, the fluid in the cyst goes away on its own, and it heals without needing any treatment. However, there are some instances in which a ruptured ovarian cyst becomes an emergency.

When might an ovarian cyst need medical attention?

Multiple factors can influence whether a ruptured ovarian cyst becomes problematic. Those include:

Infected Ovarian Cyst

Cysts can develop in response to a pelvic infection (called an abscess). If an infected cyst ruptures, it can trigger sepsis, a life-threatening immune response to harmful bacteria. Women with an infected cyst are treated in the hospital with antibiotics and possibly even surgical drainage of the cyst.

Women with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) — an infection of the pelvic area, which can be caused by either sexually transmitted diseases  or simply normal bacteria from the vagina — are more likely to develop infected ovarian cysts. The bacteria travel from the cervix into the uterus and may cause cysts to form. These cysts are filled with bacteria that can lead to sepsis if they rupture. Additionally, if a pelvic infection is left untreated, this can lead to other complications such as infertility or long-term pelvic pain.

Ovarian Torsion

Blood flow to the ovary is reduced or cut off when the weight of a cyst causes the ovary to twist on itself one or more times (called ovarian torsion). If this happens, surgery is necessary to restore blood flow.

Management of a Ruptured Ovarian Cyst

While some ruptured ovarian cysts can cause little to no symptoms, others are more severe. Your healthcare team can help you create a management plan that makes the most sense for you.

Learn more about managing ruptured ovarian cysts.

Pregnancy and Ovarian Cysts

It’s normal to have an ovarian cyst during your first trimester of pregnancy. This type of cyst, called a corpus luteum, produces hormones that initially help sustain the pregnancy until the placenta develops. The cyst usually goes away by the second trimester. This type of cyst also forms during the normal menstrual cycle after ovulation but goes away if you do not become pregnant.

Ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilized egg implants in an area outside of the uterus. Usually this happens in the fallopian tubes, but on rare occasions, it implants on an ovary. Medication or surgery is necessary to remove a cyst caused by ectopic pregnancy — the cyst gets worse as the pregnancy grows in an area that can’t sustain it.

Endometriosis and Ovarian Cysts

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. When endometrial-type tissue forms on the ovaries, it can produce a type of cyst called an endometrioma, sometimes referred to as a “chocolate cyst”. This cyst can fill with blood and grow large. Endometriosis can affect fertility, increase ovarian cancer risk and cause internal bleeding if a cyst ruptures. Cysts caused by endometriosis may require surgery.

How can you tell if an ovarian cyst has burst?

Not all women feel a ruptured ovarian cyst. Most do feel pain at the time of rupture and then some discomfort for a few days afterward. Usually, the symptoms can be relieved with over-the-countermedications.

Symptoms you may experience if you have a ruptured ovarian cyst include:

• Sudden, sharp pain in the lower belly or back
• Vaginal spotting or bleeding
• Abdominal bloating

Seek emergency medical attention if you also have abdominal pain with:

• Pain not controlled by over-the-counter medications
• Severe nausea and vomiting (may indicate ovarian torsion)
• Fever (may indicate infection)
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Faintness or dizziness

Treatments for Ruptured Ovarian Cysts

Treatments for a ruptured ovarian cyst usually focus on managing symptoms and making sure there are no complications. Most ruptured cysts heal on their own, and doctors often recommend rest, pain relievers and monitoring. If the rupture causes significant bleeding, infection, or severe pain, medical care may include IV fluids, antibiotics, stronger pain control, or—rarely—surgery to stop bleeding or remove the cyst. Because symptoms can overlap with other urgent conditions, it’s important to seek medical attention if pain is sudden, severe or worsening.

Medically reviewed by Caroline Campbell,M.D.