What Are Ovarian Cysts and What Causes Them?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside a woman’s ovaries. This condition is fairly common, especially in women who are still menstruating. In fact, most women will form at least one functional cyst during each menstrual cycle.
While most ovarian cysts are harmless and go unnoticed, understanding their underlying causes is crucial for timely management and treatment.
7 Common Causes of Ovarian Cysts
1. Menstrual Cycle-Related Cysts
The majority of ovarian cysts arise as a normal part of the menstrual cycle and are called functional cysts. These include:
- Follicular cysts, which form when a follicle fails to release an egg during ovulation and continues to grow.
- Corpus luteum cysts, which develop after ovulation when the follicle collapses but fills with fluid or blood.
- Both types are generally harmless and often disappear on their own without treatment.
2. Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, sometimes attaching to the ovaries. This can lead to endometriomas, cysts filled with old blood, which can cause severe menstrual pain, discomfort during intercourse, nausea, back pain, and bloating.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder marked by elevated androgen levels, which disrupt ovulation and lead to the development of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. These cysts contain immature eggs and may be accompanied by symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and difficulty losing weight.
4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is a bacterial infection that affects reproductive organs, including the ovaries. Though PID does not directly cause ovarian cysts, the infection can travel to the ovaries and trigger the formation of cysts filled with bacteria. If such cysts rupture, they can lead to serious complications like sepsis.
5. Abnormal Cell Growth
According to Cleveland Clinic, abnormal cell development in the ovaries can cause:
- Cystadenomas, which originate from surface ovarian cells and may contain watery or mucous-like fluid.
- Dermoid cysts (teratomas), which are congenital and contain a mix of tissues like skin, fat, or even hair.
6. Pregnancy
Ovarian cysts can also form during early pregnancy when the ovary continues producing hormones to support gestation. These cysts are often benign but may grow large and pose risks such as rupture or complications during childbirth.
7. Ovarian Cancer
Though rare, ovarian cancer can lead to the formation of cysts, especially in women over 50. Unlike benign cysts, cancerous cysts are aggressive, grow rapidly, and can spread to other tissues. Symptoms may include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, and loss of appetite—but often appear only in advanced stages.
How to Manage Ovarian Cysts
If you suspect an ovarian cyst, here are steps to consider:
- Consult a doctor: A gynecologist may perform an ultrasound to determine the size and nature of the cyst.
- Observation: Many cysts resolve naturally. Doctors often monitor them over time to check for changes.
- Medications: Birth control pills are commonly prescribed to prevent ovulation and reduce the formation of new cysts.
In cases where the cyst is large or painful, surgical removal may be necessary. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle—such as reducing intake of high-sugar, fatty, and processed foods—can support ovarian health.
Conclusion
Ovarian cysts can result from natural hormonal changes, medical conditions like endometriosis or PCOS, infections, pregnancy, or even cancer. While most are benign and resolve without treatment, it's essential to monitor symptoms, consult a healthcare provider, and take proactive steps to manage your reproductive health.