Impact of Ovarian Cyst Size on Pregnancy Course and Neonatal Outcomes: Does Size Really Matter?
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of benign ovarian cyst size on maternal and neonatal outcomes by comparing pregnancies complicated by cysts of different diameters. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 266 pregnant women diagnosed with benign ovarian cysts were categorized into three groups according to cyst diameter: <5 cm, 5–10 cm, and >10 cm. Maternal characteristics, pregnancy complications, delivery outcomes, and neonatal parameters were analyzed. Composite adverse perinatal outcomes (CAPO) included prematurity, low Apgar scores, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and neonatal morbidities. Results: Most small cysts (<5 cm) regressed spontaneously, while larger cysts showed significantly higher rates of complications. Cysts >10 cm were associated with increased risks of preterm delivery (23.1%), composite adverse perinatal outcomes (26.9%), and higher incidences of torsion, rupture, and surgical intervention (P<0.05 for all). No significant differences were found among groups regarding Apgar scores, NICU admission, or neonatal morbidities. Conclusions: While benign ovarian cysts generally do not impair pregnancy outcomes, cyst size is a key determinant of risk. Cysts >10 cm carry a markedly higher likelihood of maternal complications and adverse perinatal outcomes, supporting closer surveillance and individualized, size-based management strategies.
Source: The European Research Journal
Institutions: Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara Bilkent City Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Reproductive Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7118957707