An ovarian cyst is a closed sac like structure which contains fluids. They develop in the ovaries of a woman. Such a condition is common and can occur at any age. There are two types of ovarian cysts, the first types of cysts are functional cysts (follicular cysts, luteal ovarian cysts) they are usually harmless in nature and develop during the menstrual cycle. They are short lived & are the most common type of ovarian cysts. On the other hand pathological cysts (dermoid cysts, cyst adenomas), are less common and are results of abnormal cell growth. Such cysts can be harmless or cancerous.
As the name suggests ovarian cysts occur in the ovaries, they can affect one or both the ovaries. The ovaries are part of female reproductive system; they are small and have a shape similar to beans. They are present on either sides of the womb. The ovaries are responsible for two important functions:
- To release an egg every 28 days, thus playing an important role in menstrual cycle.
- To release hormones like estrogen & progesterone.