What risks are associated with a ruptured ovarian cyst?

(Dana Baras/ John Hopkins Medicine) — Having a cyst (a fluid-filled bump) on the ovaries is common and often is without symptoms. Ovarian cysts are typically harmless, says Dana Baras, M.D., M.P.H., an obstetrician/gynecologist at Howard County General Hospital. But in some cases, an ovarian cyst can rupture (break open).

“A ruptured ovarian cyst isn’t automatically a life-threatening condition,” says Baras. “In the majority of cases, the cyst fluid will dissipate and it’ll heal without any intervention. However, there are some instances in which a ruptured ovarian cyst becomes an emergency.” (…)