Puncture

Ovarian cyst aspiration

Ovarian cyst aspiration (puncture) is a minimally invasive diagnostic-therapeutic procedure where cyst content is aspirated under ultrasound guidance. The procedure is outpatient, painless, and requires no hospitalization.

When is aspiration performed?

• Functional cysts — larger than 5 cm not responding to conservative therapy
• Endometriomas ("chocolate cysts") — aspiration and sclerotherapy
• Diagnostic cytology — fluid analysis to exclude malignancy
• Symptomatic cysts — causing pain, pressure, or infertility
• IVF preparation — follicle aspiration for in vitro fertilization

Procedure steps

• Preparation — local disinfection, optional local anesthesia
• Ultrasound guidance — thin needle inserted transvaginally to the cyst under continuous ultrasound monitoring
• Aspiration — cyst content is aspirated into a syringe
• Cytological analysis — aspirate sent for laboratory analysis
• Duration — entire procedure takes 10-15 minutes

After aspiration

• 30-minute rest — brief observation in the office
• Light bleeding — minimal bleeding is normal for 1-2 days
• Normal activities — can be resumed the same day
• Follow-up ultrasound — after 2-4 weeks

Advantages of aspiration

Aspiration is the fastest and safest method for resolving large or symptomatic cysts without general anesthesia or surgery. Combined with sclerotherapy, it reduces recurrence risk.