How do ovarian cysts develop?
Ovarian cysts occur when the follicles or sacs on the ovary that contain the egg mature but do not release the egg into the fallopian tube. While most cysts are benign, a few may turn out to be malignant. There are several different types of ovarian cysts. Functional cysts are completely normal and form during ovulation. Endometriomas are cysts that develop in women who have endometriosis. Benign cystic tumors, also called cystadenomas, are non-cancerous tumors that develop from cells on the outer surface of the ovary and are often filled with a fatty liquid. Some of these tumors, called dermoid cysts, are lined with structures such as hair or pieces of bone. Although they are usually small and may not cause symptoms, they can become large and uncomfortable. Finally, multiple cysts are a type of ovarian cyst usually caused by a disorder called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts? Many women may have functional cysts or benign cystic tumors without
