Pelvic MRI for Ovarian Cysts: What to Expect

If you have been advised to undergo a pelvic MRI to assess an ovarian cyst, it is natural to feel uncertain about what that means. Often, an ultrasound may show findings that require a closer look before treatment decisions are made.

Most ovarian cysts are harmless and monitored with ultrasound alone. An MRI is typically recommended when more detailed imaging is needed to better understand the nature of a cyst. Knowing how this scan supports accurate diagnosis and planning can help ease concerns and give you clearer expectations about the next steps.

What is MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a scan that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of your internal organs and soft tissues. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not involve radiation exposure.

A pelvic MRI examines organs in your lower abdomen and pelvis, including your:

• Ovaries

• Uterus

• Fallopian tubes

• Bladder

• Surrounding soft tissues

The images produced by MRI allow doctors to examine tissue characteristics and anatomical structures in detail, which can be helpful when ultrasound findings require further clarification. Your doctor can use this information to discuss your results and give you answers instead of leaving you with more questions.

Why do I need an MRI scan for an ovarian cyst?

Being told you need an MRI can feel unsettling. It might seem like your doctor is looking for something serious. However, not everyone with an ovarian cyst needs an MRI. Your doctor has recommended this scan for specific reasons.

A pelvic MRI may be recommended if:

• An ovarian cyst looks complex or unclear on ultrasound

• The cyst has solid components or irregular features

• Your symptoms like pelvic pain and changes in menstrual cycle continue despite normal ultrasound findings

• There is concern about whether the cyst might be serious

• Your doctor is planning surgery and needs more detailed information

MRI shows the size, type, and contents of your cyst. It can tell whether you have a simple fluid-filled cyst, one with blood, or something more complex. This helps doctors work out whether it's benign (non-cancerous) or needs further investigation. Most of the time, the scan confirms the cyst is harmless.

Advantages of an MRI scan for ovarian cysts

Pelvic MRI can provide information that may be helpful in certain clinical situations.

These include:

• Soft tissue detail

• Helps tell the difference between simple cysts, hemorrhagic cysts, endometriomas, dermoid cysts, and tumours

• Better evaluation of complex cysts or unclear pelvic masses

• No radiation exposure

• More accurate assessment of cyst contents (fluid, blood, fat, or solid components)

This detail can save you from unnecessary worry or procedures. Often, something that looks suspicious on ultrasound turns out to be completely benign on MRI. Your doctor uses this information alongside your symptoms and medical history to plan the right treatment from the start or confirm you need no treatment at all.

If your doctor has suggested a pelvic MRI and you’re feeling unsure, getting clear guidance can make a big difference. Request an appointment at Thomson Medical to review your scan findings, understand exactly why the MRI is needed, and discuss the next steps based on clear, detailed results.

Is pelvic MRI safe?

You might be worried about whether the MRI is safe for you, especially if you have any medical devices or implants. The good news is that pelvic MRI is generally considered safe for most people when appropriate safety screening is conducted.

Key safety points include:

• No radiation is used

• Generally considered appropriate for repeated scans if needed

• Contrast agents (a substance used in medical imaging) are well tolerated in most patients

However, MRI may not be suitable if you have certain implanted medical devices (such as older pacemakers), metal fragments in your body, or severe kidney disease (if a contrast agent is required).

Always inform your doctor about any implants, metal exposure, or pregnancy before the scan. This helps them make sure the scan is safe for you.

How to prepare for a pelvic MRI

Preparation can feel overwhelming, but the steps are straightforward. 

You'll usually need to:

• Wear loose, metal-free clothing or a gown

• Remove jewellery, watches, and hair accessories

• Fast for a few hours if contrast agent is planned

• Tell staff if you are pregnant, claustrophobic (fear of confined spaces), or have any kidney problems

You may be asked to arrive early to complete screening forms. These forms help the team check for any safety concerns before your scan. It might feel like a lot of questions, but it's all to make sure the scan is safe and gives a quality scan.

What happens during an MRI scan?

Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable on the day.

During the scan:

• You lie on a narrow table that slides into the MRI machine

• The radiographer communicates with you throughout the exam

• You must remain still to get clear images

• Loud tapping or thumping noises occur (ear protection is provided)

• The scan typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes

If a contrast agent is used, it is injected through an intravenous line (IV) during the procedure. It helps certain tissues show up with different signal characteristics on the images. Most people don't feel anything when it's injected, though some notice a cool sensation.

What does an ovarian cyst look like on an MRI?

MRI provides information about the internal structure of ovarian cysts, which helps doctors work out what type of cyst you have.

Different cysts have different appearances:

Radiologists use these features to help determine whether a cyst is non-cancerous tissue growth or requires further examination. The information helps your doctor recommend the right next steps, whether that's monitoring, medication, or treatment.

Having an MRI doesn't mean something  is seriously wrong. Most scans show benign cysts that need minimal or no treatment. Knowing exactly what you're dealing with helps you and your doctor move forwards and focus on the right care for you.

It’s important to understand what that means for your care. Request an appointment at Thomson Medical to have your MRI findings explained clearly, confirm what type of ovarian cyst you have, and discuss whether follow-up, monitoring, or treatment is needed.

FAQ

Can an MRI tell if an ovarian cyst is cancerous?

Pelvic MRI cannot definitively diagnose ovarian cancer, but it can provide information about whether a cyst has features consistent with benign conditions or whether it has characteristics that require further evaluation. Most ovarian cysts are benign, and the MRI provides information that contributes to this assessment.

Is an MRI better than a pelvic ultrasound?

MRI is not always better, but it is more detailed. Pelvic ultrasound is usually the first test because it's quick, widely available, and works well for most cysts. MRI is used when ultrasound results are unclear or show complex findings that need a closer look.

When is the appropriate time to get a pelvic MRI?

Timing depends on your menstrual cycle and clinical concern. In some cases, MRI may be performed after menstruation, when cyst persistence needs confirmation, or when symptoms are ongoing. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate timing for your situation.

How much does a pelvic MRI cost?

Costs depend on location, insurance, and whether contrast is used. Without insurance, pelvic MRI costs may range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars. Insurance coverage often requires prior authorisation, so check with your provider beforehand.

How much radiation is in a pelvic MRI?

None. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves, not radiation. This makes it an appropriate option for repeated imaging when medically necessary, as there is no radiation exposure involved.

What not to do before a pelvic MRI?

The information is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your unique situation, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.