Recurring Dermoid cysts - what treatment options are available to stop this from happening?

I am a 29 yo female with recurrent bilateral dermoid cysts in my ovaries and I'd like to get an expert opinion while I wait for my appointment.

Backstory/Timeline:

  • In April 2022 I had surgery to remove a dermoid cyst from one ovary and a follicular cyst from the other one via laparoscopy. 
  • In March 2024 I was diagnosed with bilateral dermoid cysts again. In September 2024 I had my second laparoscopy and this time they got cauterized instead of removed.
  • In January 2024 I had another ultrasound and the cysts were back. I had been put on the wait list for a year. 
  • In February 2025 I had another ultrasound showing the same results from the previous scan, only with a very slight change in the size of one of the dermoid cysts. 

I am now waiting to be referred through the urgent path to discuss my options with a gynaecologist (my GP anticipates I will need to undergo another removal). 

At this point, I feel like my life will be an constant in-and-out of surgeries to treat these recurring cysts. I don't really want to put my body in this position every two years. 

I am probably overthinking and over-planning, but my only idea to stop the dermoid recurrency is by removing my ovaries, which is something I don't want to do either for several reasons (from infertility to making my body go into a premature menopause). 

Note: Cherry on top, I am also BRCA1 positive.

What paths could be explored? Thank you in advance :)

  • Hello mbijou19 and thank you for posting.

    I’m really sorry to hear how difficult this has been for you. It’s completely understandable to feel worried, especially when cysts keep recurring, and you’re also managing the implications of having a BRCA1 alteration.

    As Cancer Information Nurses, we’re not directly involved in your care, so we’re unable to offer a medical opinion or advise on how to prevent cysts from recurring. The specialist team managing your care is best placed to assess you and talk you through what they feel is the best way forward. They can explain how your BRCA1 status may or may not influence management options.

    I hope you’re able to get an appointment soon so you can discuss your concerns in detail. If, after that, you feel unsure about what has been recommended, or if things remain unclear, you can ask for a second opinion.

    I’m sorry we can’t be more specific, but I hope the appointment brings some clarity and reassurance.

    Take care,

    Jemma