An ovarian cyst is a sac or pouch containing liquid or solid material, that develops in or on the ovary. Ovarian cysts are very common, between the ages of 30 and 60. They may be single or multiple, and can occur in one or both ovaries. Most are benign (non-cancerous), but approximately 15 percent are malignant (cancerous).
TYPES OF CYSTS
There are five common types of ovarian cysts: functional cysts, polycystic ovaries, endometriotic cysts, cystadenomas and dermoid cysts.
Functional Cysts
They develop as part of the natural function of the ovary. There are two types of functional cysts
• Follicle Cyst – This cyst occurs when a developing egg fails to rupture. These cysts grow from 3 to 5 cm in diameter, and will usually dissolve within one to three months.
• Corpus Luteum Cyst – This cyst is caused by a malfunction of the corpus luteum, it fills with fluid and remains in the ovary.