As Hailey Bieber shares her diagnosis, L360 speaks to a woman living with ovarian cysts, while experts reveal everything you need to know.
When Hailey Bieber shared a photo of her bloated stomach to her Instagram story with the caption: “Currently have 2 ovarian cysts. If you deal with ovarian cysts I’m right there with ya!”, it struck a chord with women around the world.
One viral moment became a catalyst for conversation — finally putting the spotlight on a topic many suffer through silently: ovarian cysts.
Style and beauty influencer Natalie Yorke was one of those women who instantly related.
“I was really pleased to see someone with such a big platform be so open and vulnerable about ovarian cysts,” says Natalie. “While she doesn’t suffer from endometriosis or PCOS — she’s still going through what so many women are experiencing sometimes on a daily basis.”
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A long diagnosis
For Natalie, her own journey to diagnosis was far from straightforward.
“Honestly, I think I’ve had it for years, but I was only diagnosed when I was 31 after years of wondering what was wrong with me. I had test after test with my GP and it wasn’t until I went to a private endocrinologist and had more specific panel of bloods taken alongside a transvaginal ultrasound that I was finally diagnosed with PCOS, which led to a mix of emotions.”
Her symptoms had been building for some time, including weight gain, bad bloating and pain, irregular periods, insomnia and thinning hair.
The diagnosis took an emotional toll.
“The change in my figure affected me the most and it’s one of the main reasons I paid to see a doctor to find out what was going on as it just wasn’t making sense. I, of course, wasn’t happy to hear the diagnosis, but it also gave me a little bit of closure as I finally knew what was going on inside my body.”
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Supplements and lifestyle changes
Natalie chose to manage her symptoms through lifestyle changes rather than medication, and she says it’s completely transformed her wellbeing.
“I’ve overhauled my life in order to manage my symptoms. I’ve chosen to focus on changing my lifestyle and taking supplements and vitamins as opposed to take the medicinal route, and it’s honestly changed my life as the majority of my symptoms are barely there anymore.”
Her go-to products include:
- Myo-Inositol 4000mg (specifically Free Soul Myo-Inositol)
- My Ova Hair, Skin & Nails
- Berberine capsules for metabolism and insulin sensitivity
- Vitamin D, magnesium and zinc
Alongside going to the gym regularly, she also goes on 5k walks and jogs nearly every day to stay active.
Over time, Natalie says the experience has shifted her relationship with herself.
“Over the years I’ve learnt how to manage my symptoms in the best way possible for me and I’ve also learnt to love myself more — I went from hating how I looked to spreading the word about PCOS as much as possible.”
What are ovarian cysts?
An ovarian cyst is essentially a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary, explains women’s health and intimate health expert Dr Shirin Lakhani. In most cases, these cysts are harmless and resolve on their own within a few months without requiring any treatment.
There are two main types: functional cysts, which are part of the menstrual cycle; and pathological cysts, which form from abnormal cell growth.
“Women often worry when they hear the term ‘ovarian cyst,’” says Dr Lakhani. “But it’s important to understand that these are incredibly common — most women will develop at least one in their lifetime without even knowing it.”
However, Dr Masarat Jilani, GP at bladder care company Jude, warns: “Although most ovarian cysts are benign, a twisted or ruptured cyst can easily become a medical emergency so if you notice sudden and severe pelvic pain, perhaps with fever or dizziness, then seek urgent medical attention.”
Read more: PCOS and gut health — diet and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms
What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?
Dr Lakhani explains that when symptoms do appear, they can vary widely.
“Common symptoms can include a dull or sharp pelvic pain, particularly on one side, pain during sexual intercourse, or a frequent urge to urinate if the cyst is pressing on the bladder. Some women experience difficulty with bowel movements, unusual changes in their periods — either heavier, lighter, or more irregular — or feelings of fullness even after eating small amounts.”
Dr Jilani adds that feeling like you never fully empty your bladder is a possible, but less common sign.
She says: “If you’re noticing any of the symptoms listed above, especially if they’re persistent, new or affecting your daily life, it’s worth speaking with a GP or gynaecologist and requesting further investigation. It can help to keep a symptom diary as well, to help you discuss your concerns with your doctors.”
A bloated stomach, like the one Hailey Bieber posted, can also be a visible sign.
Dr Lakhani notes: “[Bloated stomachs] have become more publicly discussed, thanks to figures like Hailey Bieber, who recently shared a photo on social media of her own experience with bloating.
“This kind of openness is incredibly helpful in breaking down the stigma and encouraging women to seek help when something feels off.”
Read more: The truth about premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?
When it comes to diagnosis, Dr Lakhani explains that doctors typically begin with a pelvic exam and ultrasound and may follow up with MRI, laparoscopy or blood tests like CA-125 if needed.
“In most cases, especially with functional cysts, a ‘watch and wait’ approach is taken. That means monitoring the cyst with follow-up scans to ensure it’s shrinking or resolving on its own, which it often does.”
If necessary, hormonal contraception or surgery may be recommended — but most cysts don’t interfere with fertility.
“One of the most common misconceptions is that ovarian cysts automatically equate to fertility problems. While certain types, like those related to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis, can have an impact on fertility, the majority of ovarian cysts do not.”
Dr Lakhani adds: “Hailey Bieber’s experience is a great reminder that women can live full, healthy lives and have children even if they’ve experienced ovarian cysts.”
As Hailey’s post continues to circulate, it’s clear the ripple effect is more than just likes and shares — it’s about awareness, self-advocacy, and a collective push to normalise conversations around women’s health.
Feature image credit: Alamy
