Ovarian cysts are typically discovered during a routine pelvic examination. The doctor will usually observe the cyst over a period of months through ultrasounds to see if it resolves itself. If it does not, or if it is accompanied by pain or other symptoms, the doctor will perform tests to see if the cyst is malignant. Symptoms that tend to accompany ovarian cysts include irregular or painful periods, pain during sexual intercourse or when passing a bowel movement, or pain in the abdomen that may radiate to the thighs and buttocks.

Key points for TCM diagnosis
(1) Mass in the lower abdomen, or accompanied by abdominal distension, abdominal pain, lumbago, pressure symptoms, pain and disturbance of menstruation.

(2) Gynecological examination shows mass beside the uterus with evident margin or mobility.

(3) Cytological examination, puncture with thin needle for biopsy, type B ultrasonic examination, radiological examination, abdominoscopy and tumor signifiers can be used as supplementary examinations of benign and malignant tumor.

(4) Benign ovarian tumor should be differentiated from oncological changes of ovary, oviduct and ovary cyst, hysteromyoma, gravid uterus and ascites; malignant ovarian tumor should be differentiated from endometriosis, inflammation of pelvic connective tissue, tuberculous peritonitis, tumor outside birth canal and metastatic ovarian tumor.