How to relieve ovarian cyst pain: 4 safe and effective home remedies

Ovarian cysts are a relatively common condition in women of reproductive age. According to statistics, approximately 8–18% of women may develop ovarian cysts at some point in their lives, and the majority are benign. However, when the cyst grows or causes complications, patients may experience dull lower abdominal pain, pain during movement, intercourse, or during menstruation, which significantly impacts daily life.

If you are looking for ways to safely relieve ovarian cyst pain, this article will help you understand physician-recommended methods, from using pain relievers, monitoring cyst changes, to when surgical intervention or hormonal medication is needed to prevent new cyst formation. Tiptory will also help you recognize when pain is a dangerous sign requiring immediate medical attention to protect your long-term reproductive health.

Part 1: Using Pain Relievers for Ovarian Cysts

Method 1: Proper Use of Pain Relievers

Prioritize Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) for Pain Relief

• When experiencing ovarian cysts, doctors often recommend using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve mild to moderate ovarian cyst pain. This is a common initial treatment choice in many medical guidelines due to its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

• You can purchase some over-the-counter NSAIDs at pharmacies. However, if the pain persists or does not improve after taking regular medication, consult a doctor for evaluation and appropriate prescription. Do not arbitrarily increase the dosage or extend the duration of use.

Use Ibuprofen at the Correct Dosage

• Ibuprofen is one of the commonly used NSAIDs to relieve ovarian cyst pain. It can help reduce lower abdominal or pelvic pain caused by ovarian cysts.

• The usual adult dose is 400–600 mg every 4–6 hours as needed, but it is important to follow the instructions on the package or as directed by your doctor.

• It is advisable to take the medication after meals or with food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.

• Do not use ibuprofen if you have a history of stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe kidney disease, NSAID allergy, or are in the late stages of pregnancy, unless specifically directed by your doctor.

Consider Naproxen if Suitable

• Naproxen is also an NSAID and another effective option for relieving ovarian cyst pain in many individuals.

• The medication is available in both over-the-counter and higher-strength prescription forms. The choice of medication and dosage should be based on the pain level, medical history, and other medications you are currently taking.

• Naproxen typically has a longer duration of action than ibuprofen, so it may require fewer doses per day. However, it still carries a risk of gastrointestinal irritation, kidney effects, or increased bleeding risk in some individuals.

Notes on Using Pain Relievers for Ovarian Cysts

• Only use NSAIDs for a short period to manage symptoms; do not consider them a treatment for ovarian cysts.

• If the pain becomes increasingly severe, sudden, accompanied by fever, severe vomiting, dizziness, fainting, or abnormal vaginal bleeding, go to the hospital immediately as these could be signs of ovarian cyst torsion or rupture requiring emergency medical attention.

• If you frequently need medication to relieve ovarian cyst pain, your doctor may recommend an ultrasound and examination to determine the cause and choose an appropriate treatment method, rather than just controlling symptoms with medication.

Method 2: Using Strong Pain Relievers When Necessary

Opioid Pain Relievers Only for Very Severe Pain

• When ovarian cysts cause severe pain and common pain relievers like NSAIDs are no longer effective, doctors may consider using opioid pain relievers to relieve ovarian cyst pain.

• This group of drugs has strong pain-relieving effects and should only be prescribed in truly necessary cases, with close monitoring by medical professionals.

Morphine is commonly used in emergencies

• Morphine is a commonly used opioid pain reliever for controlling very severe acute pain, including pain from complications of ovarian cysts such as cyst torsion or rupture.

• The drug is usually administered intravenously (IV) in the hospital for rapid effect and to allow doctors to easily adjust the dose according to the patient's pain level.

• Doctors often start with a low dose, then gradually increase it if needed until the pain is effectively controlled.

Only Use Opioids for a Short Period

• Current treatment guidelines recommend that opioids should only be used for the shortest possible time because they carry risks of drowsiness, constipation, respiratory depression, dependence, and addiction if not used correctly.

• After acute pain is controlled, the doctor will evaluate to switch to more appropriate treatment methods to address the root cause of the pain instead of continuing to use strong pain relievers.

Special Caution Required for Individuals at Risk of Drug Dependence

• If you have a history of alcohol abuse, substance abuse, or pain reliever dependence, fully inform your doctor before using opioids.

• The doctor will weigh the benefits of pain control against the risk of relapse or adverse effects to choose the safest treatment option.

The Use of Morphine in Hospitals is Highly Safe

• When used in a hospital setting, morphine is continuously monitored for breathing rate, blood pressure, pulse, and level of consciousness to detect any side effects early.

• In rare cases of severe reactions such as opioid-induced respiratory depression, medical staff can use naloxone – an opioid antagonist – to quickly reverse the effects of morphine and ensure patient safety.

Important Note

• Opioids only provide temporary relief for ovarian cyst pain; they do not treat ovarian cysts.

• If the pain is severe enough to require opioids, this could be a sign of a serious complication. Patients need to be examined, undergo ultrasound, and treat the underlying cause as soon as possible to protect their health and reproductive capacity.

Method 3: Accurately Identifying the Cause of Pain

Do not self-diagnose pain as being caused by ovarian cysts

• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain does not always originate from ovarian cysts. Conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, appendicitis, urinary stones, or urinary tract infections can also cause similar symptoms.

• Before attempting to relieve ovarian cyst pain, it is crucial to accurately identify the cause of the pain to ensure appropriate treatment and avoid overlooking dangerous conditions that require early intervention.

Gynecological Examination to Assess Ovarian Condition

• When you visit a medical facility, the doctor will ask about the location of the pain, when it started, your menstrual cycle, medical history, and any accompanying symptoms such as fever, nausea, or abnormal vaginal bleeding.

• Subsequently, the doctor may perform a gynecological examination to assess the pelvic area, detecting any abnormalities in the ovaries or other reproductive organs.

Ultrasound is an Important Method for Diagnosing Ovarian Cysts

• Pelvic ultrasound, especially transvaginal ultrasound, is a widely used method for diagnosing ovarian cysts.

• During a transvaginal ultrasound, a small probe is gently inserted into the vagina to emit high-frequency ultrasound waves, creating detailed images of the uterus and both ovaries on the screen.

• This technique helps the doctor determine:

  • The presence or absence of ovarian cysts.

  • The location and size of the cyst.

  • The characteristics of the cyst (fluid-filled, solid tissue, or mixed).

  • Signs suggestive of a benign cyst or requiring further evaluation.

Additional Tests May Be Necessary

• Depending on the case, the doctor may order blood tests, pregnancy tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or other tests if complications are suspected or if differentiation from other conditions is needed.

• A comprehensive diagnosis helps select the appropriate treatment method, ranging from regular monitoring and medication to relieve ovarian cyst pain, to surgical intervention when necessary.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?

• Go to the hospital immediately if the pain appears suddenly and severely, accompanied by fever, severe vomiting, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. These could be signs of ovarian cyst torsion, cyst rupture, or another emergency condition that requires timely intervention to prevent complications.

Part 2: When to Operate on Ovarian Cysts?

Note 1: Consider Surgery When Necessary

Surgery is indicated when cysts cause prolonged pain

• Not all cases of ovarian cysts require surgery. For functional cysts, symptoms usually subside, and the cyst may resolve on its own after about 2–3 menstrual cycles.

• However, if pain persists despite medical treatment or if relieving ovarian cyst pain is no longer effective, the doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cyst and reduce the risk of complications.

Cases typically considered for surgery

The doctor may recommend surgical intervention if one or more of the following conditions occur:

• Pain lasting for more than 2–3 menstrual cycles.

• Ovarian cysts that are large or continue to grow over time.

• The cyst has characteristics inconsistent with a functional cyst on ultrasound.

• Suspicion of cyst torsion, cyst rupture, or risk of malignancy.

• Cysts that affect daily activities or reduce quality of life.

Most ovarian cysts are benign

• The majority of ovarian cysts are diagnosed as benign and are not cancerous.

• Nevertheless, the doctor will monitor the size, ultrasound appearance, and risk factors to determine the appropriate timing for surgery, prevent complications, and limit unnecessary interventions.

Surgery may involve only removing the cyst or the entire ovary

• Depending on the type of cyst, its size, the number of cysts, the patient's age, and future childbearing desires, the doctor will choose the appropriate treatment method.

• In many cases, the doctor only needs to excise the ovarian cyst and preserve the healthy ovarian tissue to maintain reproductive function.

• If the ovary is severely damaged or at risk of cancer, the doctor may recommend removing the entire affected ovary. After menopause, the scope of surgery is usually broader as there is no longer a need to preserve reproductive capacity.

Pregnancy is still possible after removing one ovary

• If only one ovary needs to be removed and the remaining ovary functions normally, many women can still ovulate, become pregnant, and give birth naturally.

• After surgery, the doctor will provide instructions for regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery, assess the risk of recurrent ovarian cysts, and advise on pregnancy planning if the patient desires to conceive.

Discuss thoroughly with your doctor before deciding on surgery

• Before undergoing surgery, discuss with your doctor the benefits, risks, surgical approach (laparoscopic or open surgery), recovery time, and impact on fertility. Understanding the treatment options will help you make a decision that aligns with your health condition and long-term goals.

Note 2: Surgery When Cancer is Suspected

Surgery is an important option if cancer is suspected

• In addition to relieving ovarian cyst pain, doctors always assess the malignant potential of the cyst to determine the appropriate treatment method.

• If examination results, ultrasound, or other tests indicate that the ovarian cyst has characteristics suspicious of cancer, surgery is often recommended to remove the cyst and establish a diagnosis through histopathology.

• Early intervention helps improve treatment effectiveness if the cyst is indeed ovarian cancer.

The doctor will assess the risk before recommending surgery

The decision to operate is not solely based on pain symptoms but also depends on several factors, including:

• The size and growth rate of the ovarian cyst.

• Ultrasound images showing the cyst has thick walls, septations, solid components, or abnormal vascularization.

• The patient's age, especially postmenopausal women.

• Personal or family history of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or genetic syndromes that increase cancer risk.

• Results of supportive tests such as CA-125 or other imaging diagnostics when needed.

The scope of surgery depends on the evaluation results

• If the cancer risk is low and the patient still wishes to conceive, the doctor usually prioritizes maximum preservation of the ovary and uterus if conditions permit.

• When the malignant risk is high or cancer has been confirmed, the scope of surgery may be broader to remove all diseased tissue and reduce the risk of recurrence.

• In many cases, the doctor may recommend removing the affected ovary, both ovaries, both fallopian tubes, and the uterus. This decision will be individualized based on the disease stage, age, and health status of each person.

Consider the impact on fertility

• Removing both ovaries and the uterus will mean the woman can no longer conceive naturally and will enter menopause if she has not already done so.

• Therefore, before surgery, patients should discuss thoroughly with their doctor about treatment goals, fertility preservation options, and assisted reproductive choices if they still wish to have children in the future.

Not all cysts carry a risk of cancer

• Most ovarian cysts are benign and do not progress to cancer. Therefore, patients should not be overly concerned if diagnosed with a cyst.

• It is important to have regular gynecological check-ups, follow-up appointments as scheduled, and adhere to the doctor's instructions to monitor changes in the cyst. Early detection will help choose appropriate treatment methods, ensuring treatment effectiveness while limiting unnecessary interventions.

Note 3: Monitoring Cysts Before Treatment

Regular monitoring if the cyst is not yet dangerous

• Not all ovarian cysts require immediate treatment. If the cyst has benign characteristics, is small in size, causes no severe symptoms, and shows no signs of suspected cancer, doctors often recommend active surveillance (watchful waiting).

• This approach is recommended by many medical guidelines to avoid unnecessary surgery, as many ovarian cysts can shrink or disappear on their own after a few menstrual cycles.

Symptom management during observation

• During the observation period, if you experience mild or intermittent pain, you can use medication as prescribed by your doctor to relieve ovarian cyst pain.

• Additionally, it is advisable to rest appropriately and avoid strenuous activities if they worsen the pain.

• Medication only helps manage symptoms; it does not make the cyst disappear faster.

Follow-up appointments and ultrasounds on schedule

• The most important aspect of the observation method is attending follow-up appointments as scheduled so that your doctor can assess changes in the ovarian cyst.

• Regular ultrasounds help monitor:

  • Whether the size of the cyst has changed.

  • Whether unusual characteristics have appeared in the cyst.

  • Whether the cyst has disappeared, stabilized, or continued to grow.

• The monitoring results will serve as a basis for deciding whether to continue observation or proceed with more active treatment.

When to change the course of treatment?

• If the ovarian cyst does not shrink after the observation period, continues to grow, causes persistent pain, or shows signs of suspected malignancy, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cyst.

• Treatment will be individualized based on age, cyst size, symptoms, reproductive needs, and the risk of complications for each person.

Do not ignore abnormal signs

• During the observation period, go to the hospital immediately if you experience severe lower abdominal pain, sudden pain, fever, severe vomiting, fainting, dizziness, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. These could be signs of ovarian cyst torsion or rupture, requiring urgent treatment to avoid affecting health and fertility.

Part 3: Birth control pills to treat ovarian cysts

Note 1: Birth control pills help prevent new cysts

Hormonal birth control can help prevent new cysts

• For some women with recurrent ovarian cysts, doctors may prescribe combined hormonal birth control to reduce the risk of forming new functional cysts.

• The pills do not make existing cysts disappear or reduce ovarian cyst pain, but they can help limit the appearance of new cysts in subsequent cycles.

How do the pills work?

• Birth control pills contain estrogen and progestin hormones that suppress ovulation.

• When the ovaries temporarily do not ovulate, the risk of forming functional ovarian cysts is also significantly reduced.

• This is why the pills are often used as a preventive measure in people at risk of cyst recurrence, rather than treating existing cysts.

Use medication strictly as prescribed by your doctor

• Birth control pills are prescription medications and require a doctor's evaluation before use to ensure they are suitable for your health condition.

• Typically, the pills are taken daily at the same time. With many types of combined birth control pills, users will take 21 hormone-containing pills, then take a 7-day break or take 7 placebo pills, and then start a new pack. However, the dosing schedule may vary depending on the type of pill.

• Taking the pills regularly helps maintain contraceptive effectiveness and reduces the risk of forming new ovarian cysts.

Not everyone is suitable for birth control pills

• Hormonal birth control is not recommended for everyone. People with a history of venous thromboembolism, severe liver disease, breast cancer, uncontrolled hypertension, or women over 35 who smoke may need to choose other treatment methods.

• Before prescribing, the doctor will assess medical history, cardiovascular risk factors, and reproductive needs to select the safest option.

Combine with monitoring for long-term effectiveness

• While using the medication, you still need regular follow-up appointments and ultrasounds to monitor changes in the ovarian cyst.

• If the cyst continues to grow, causes persistent pain, or shows abnormal signs, the doctor will consider changing the treatment plan. Combining regular monitoring with appropriate treatment helps reduce the risk of complications and limits the recurrence of ovarian cysts in the future.

Note 2: Ensure you meet the conditions for taking medication

Health check before taking birth control pills

• Before prescribing hormonal birth control to prevent ovarian cysts, your doctor will review your medical history and risk factors.

• This assessment helps ensure the medication is effective while minimizing unwanted side effects. You should not self-medicate or use the pills without a prior medical examination.

Some cases where hormonal birth control should not be used

You may not be suitable for hormonal birth control if you fall into one of the following groups:

• Currently have or have a history of breast cancer.

• Have certain types of hormone-sensitive cancers, such as some cases of endometrial cancer or estrogen-dependent cancers.

• Are a smoker and 35 years of age or older, as the risk of blood clots and cardiovascular events may increase.

• Have a history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or hereditary clotting disorders.

• Have certain heart, liver, or other conditions that your doctor determines are incompatible with hormonal medication.

Your doctor will conduct a comprehensive evaluation before prescribing

• Before prescribing medication, your doctor may ask about:

  • Your and your family's medical history.

  • Current medications you are taking.

  • History of blood clots or clotting disorders.

  • Smoking habits.

  • History of cancer or hormone-related conditions.

• In some cases, your doctor may order additional tests if needed to select the appropriate treatment method.

Most women can still use the medication safely

• For women without contraindications, hormonal birth control is generally considered safe when used as prescribed and with regular monitoring.

• However, if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling and pain in one leg, severe headache, blurred vision, or abnormal vaginal bleeding while on the medication, stop taking it and seek immediate medical attention for evaluation.

Birth control pills do not replace cyst treatment

• Although they can help reduce the risk of forming new ovarian cysts, birth control pills do not make existing ovarian cysts disappear and do not directly reduce ovarian cyst pain.

• Therefore, patients still need to attend scheduled follow-up appointments, undergo regular ultrasounds, and adhere to the treatment plan developed by their doctor to achieve long-term effectiveness.

Note 3: Continue medication to reduce recurrence risk

Continue taking medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor

• If your doctor has prescribed hormonal birth control to prevent ovarian cysts, continue to use it at the correct dose and for the recommended duration.

• Stopping the medication or not taking it regularly can reduce its effectiveness in suppressing ovulation, thereby increasing the risk of forming new functional ovarian cysts.

• Do not arbitrarily extend or stop the medication without consulting your doctor.

Helps reduce the risk of new cyst formation

• Hormonal birth control does not treat existing ovarian cysts and does not directly reduce ovarian cyst pain.

• However, by limiting the ovulation process, the medication can reduce the risk of functional cysts appearing in subsequent cycles, especially in those with a history of recurrent cysts.

May help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer

• Many epidemiological studies show that long-term use of combined hormonal birth control is associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer.

• The protective effect tends to increase with duration of use and can persist for many years after discontinuing the medication. However, the extent of benefit varies for each individual depending on age, medical history, and individual risk factors.

• Nevertheless, birth control pills are not used as the sole method to prevent ovarian cancer. Regular gynecological examinations still play a very important role in early detection of abnormalities.

Regular follow-up for treatment effectiveness monitoring

• While on medication, you should attend scheduled follow-up appointments for your doctor to assess the effectiveness of ovarian cyst prevention, monitor side effects, and adjust the regimen if necessary.

• If you experience persistent pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, or other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor immediately for evaluation and timely treatment.

Combine with a healthy lifestyle to protect reproductive health

• In addition to medication, maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and undergo regular gynecological examinations. These habits help monitor reproductive health more effectively and support reducing the risk of ovarian cyst recurrence in the future.

Part 4: Natural ways to relieve ovarian cyst pain

Tip 1: Supplement ginger and turmeric to help relieve pain

Ginger and turmeric can support natural inflammation reduction

• If the pain from ovarian cysts is mild, you can add ginger and turmeric to your diet as a supportive measure. These two spices contain compounds with natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce discomfort in some individuals.

• However, ginger and turmeric only play a supportive role and cannot replace medication or medical treatment for ovarian cysts.

Add ginger and turmeric to daily meals

You can supplement these two ingredients in several simple ways, such as:

• Using fresh ginger to make tea or add to soups, porridges, and steamed dishes.

• Using turmeric powder or fresh turmeric in stir-fries, soups, curries, or smoothies.

• Combining with a balanced diet rich in green vegetables, fruits, and antioxidant-rich foods to support overall health.

Scientific evidence is still limited

• Some studies show that gingerol in ginger and curcumin in turmeric have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, there is not enough high-quality evidence to confirm that they can reduce ovarian cyst pain or shrink ovarian cysts.

• Therefore, ginger or turmeric should not be relied upon as the primary treatment method, especially if the pain is persistent or worsening.

Notes on use

• Ginger and turmeric should be used in moderation in daily meals.

• Individuals taking anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, or with gallbladder disease should consult a doctor before consuming large amounts of ginger, turmeric, or supplements containing extracts of these ingredients.

• If severe abdominal pain, fever, severe vomiting, or abnormal vaginal bleeding occurs, seek immediate medical attention instead of only applying natural remedies.

Combine with treatment as directed by your doctor

• To effectively manage ovarian cysts, combine a healthy diet with regular follow-up appointments and adherence to the treatment regimen. Natural remedies like ginger and turmeric should only be considered part of a comprehensive care plan, not a replacement for medical monitoring and treatment.

Tip 2: Warm compress for temporary pain relief

Warm compresses help relax muscles and relieve pain

• If ovarian cysts cause mild or dull lower abdominal pain, a warm compress can be a simple measure to reduce ovarian cyst pain at home.

• The warmth helps increase blood circulation in the area, relax tense abdominal and pelvic muscles, thereby reducing pain and discomfort in some individuals.

How to apply a warm compress correctly

• Use a hot water bottle, heating pad, or a warm water bottle wrapped in a soft towel.

• Place it on the lower abdomen or pelvic area where the pain occurs.

• Apply for about 15–20 minutes each time, and repeat several times a day if needed.

• The temperature should be moderately warm, avoiding excessive heat to minimize the risk of skin burns.

Soaking in warm water can also help reduce discomfort

• Taking a warm bath or soaking in a warm tub is another way to apply heat to the abdomen and pelvis.

• Warm water helps muscles relax, reduces tension, and can help reduce ovarian cyst pain at a mild level.

• The soaking time should be about 10–20 minutes, ensuring the water is not too hot to avoid discomfort or a drop in blood pressure in some individuals.

Notes when applying heat

• Do not apply heat packs or hot water bottles directly to the skin. Wrap them in a towel to protect the skin from burns.

• Do not apply heat if there are open wounds, infections in the abdominal area, or if your doctor advises against using heat.

• If the pain increases instead of decreases after applying heat, stop and contact your doctor for examination.

Warm compresses only help relieve symptoms

• Warm compresses do not make ovarian cysts shrink or disappear, but only help with temporary pain relief.

• If the pain is persistent, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by fever, vomiting, severe pain, dizziness, or abnormal vaginal bleeding, you need to go to a medical facility immediately for evaluation and treatment of the cause.

Tip 3: Consider acupuncture or hypnosis

Acupuncture may help relieve pain in some individuals

• Some people with ovarian cysts report that acupuncture helps them feel more comfortable and assists in reducing ovarian cyst pain. This method uses very fine needles inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system and regulate the pain-relieving response.

• Some studies show that acupuncture can help reduce chronic pelvic pain in some individuals. However, evidence of its effectiveness for pain due to ovarian cysts is still limited and insufficient to consider it a standard treatment method.

Hypnotherapy can help control pain perception

• Hypnotherapy is a psychological method that helps patients relax and change how the brain perceives pain signals.

• Some studies note that hypnosis can help relieve chronic pain and reduce anxiety in some people. However, its effectiveness for ovarian cysts has not been clearly proven and may vary between individuals.

• This method does not shrink the tumor but can only help improve pain or stress related to the condition.

Should only be considered a supportive method

• Acupuncture and hypnotherapy cannot replace medical treatments for ovarian cysts.

• If the pain is prolonged, recurs frequently, or shows signs of suspected complications, you still need to be examined by a specialist to determine the cause and choose the appropriate treatment method.

Choose a reputable facility to ensure safety

• If you want to try acupuncture or hypnotherapy, choose a licensed facility performed by a qualified and experienced professional.

• Before starting, you should inform your treating doctor to get advice on whether this method is suitable for your health condition.

Do not delay examination and treatment

• If ovarian cysts cause severe pain, rapidly worsening pain, fever, nausea, fainting, or abnormal vaginal bleeding, go to the hospital immediately. These cases require urgent medical evaluation and treatment instead of merely applying supportive therapies like acupuncture or hypnotherapy.

Tip 4: Distract yourself to reduce pain

Keep your mind busy to reduce pain perception

• When ovarian cysts cause mild or dull pain, shifting your attention to favorite activities can help you feel more comfortable. This is a technique used in chronic pain management to reduce the brain's focus on pain signals.

• Although it does not treat the cause, this method can help relieve ovarian cyst pain and improve your mood while awaiting treatment or monitoring.

Choose suitable activities

You can try gentle activities such as:

• Reading a favorite book or magazine.

• Listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks.

• Playing light recreational games.

• Painting, knitting, crafting, or gardening.

• Watching movies, chatting with family, or engaging in a hobby that helps you relax.

• Walking slowly or performing light activities if the pain does not increase with movement.

Practice deep breathing to relax your body

• Deep breathing can help reduce abdominal muscle tension and alleviate anxiety caused by pain.

• You can follow these steps:

  1. Sit or lie in a comfortable position.

  2. Inhale slowly through your nose for about 4 seconds.

  3. Hold your breath for 1–2 seconds.

  4. Exhale slowly through your mouth for about 6–8 seconds.

  5. Repeat for 5–10 minutes or until you feel more relaxed.

Meditation helps control stress and pain perception

• Mindfulness meditation or guided relaxation exercises can help reduce stress, improve emotional control, and lessen the attention given to pain.

• Many studies show that meditation can help manage chronic pain and improve quality of life, but it does not replace treatment for ovarian cysts or pain relief methods for ovarian cysts as prescribed by a doctor.

Don't ignore unusual pain

• Relaxation techniques and distraction are only suitable for mild pain or pain with an identified cause by a doctor.

• If the pain is severe, appears suddenly, is prolonged, accompanied by fever, nausea, fainting, or abnormal vaginal bleeding, go to a medical facility immediately for examination as these could be signs of ovarian cyst complications requiring urgent treatment.

References

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Content editor: Sidney Bailey Hoang.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Sophia Miller.