An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid or a semisolid material that forms on or within one of the ovaries. The ovaries are small organs in the pelvis that make female hormones and hold egg cells.
There are different types of cysts, many of which are normal and harmless (benign). Functional cysts, which are not disease-related, occur as a result of ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). Functional cysts generally shrink over time, usually within 60 days, without specific treatment.
Functional ovarian cysts, which are relatively common, should not be confused with other types of cysts that are disease-related. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome and ovarian cancer also involve growths on the ovaries. Some smaller cysts cause no symptoms. In these cases, you may not even know you have a cyst.
Larger cysts may cause :
  • Pelvic pain or a dull ache in your back.
  • A feeling of fullness (bloating) in your lower belly.
  • Pain during intercourse.
  • Painful periods.
Some prolonged symptoms may be associated with a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome. This is a condition that causes irregular periods and other hormone-related problems, including obesity and infertility. Other symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome include hirsutism (increased growth of body hair) and difficulty losing weight. If a cyst breaks open, it can cause severe pain and swelling in the abdomen. Often, the cyst reabsorbs on its own. Early signs for woman’s with PCOD are:
  • Your menstrual periods are late, irregular, or painful.
  • Your abdominal pain doesn’t go away.
  • Your abdomen becomes enlarged or swollen.
  • You have trouble urinating or emptying your bladder completely.
  • You have pain during intercourse.
  • You have feelings of fullness (bloating), pressure, or discomfort in your abdomen.
  • You lose weight for no apparent reason.
  • You feel generally ill.