From Myths to Evidence: A Clinical Review of Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on or around the ovaries . The female body has two ovaries responsible for the production of eggs and hormones for reproductive activity. Ovarian cysts are mostly linked to the reproductive cycle. However, they also affect post-menopausal women. Causes of ovarian cysts may be functional or pathological. Functional Cyst: These develop as a part of the normal process of fertilization. They are more common than pathological cysts and are often benign. These cysts usually resolve on their own within months. Follicular Cyst: The ovaries contain many follicles, about 300,000, that house the eggs. During puberty, these follicles mature and release the eggs. Follicular cysts happen when these follicles do not release the egg but rather get swollen and filled with fluid. Corpus Luteum Cyst: These happen when the progesterone-producing corpus luteum, after ovulation, does not dissolve but instead produces a cyst. Pathological Cyst: These are caused by abnor...