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Most ovarian cysts are functional in nature and harmless (benign).[1][2] Ovarian cysts affect women of all ages. They occur most often, however, during a woman's childbearing years. Some ovarian cysts cause problems, such as bleeding and pain. Surgery may be required to remove cysts larger than 5 centimeters in diameter.

Functional cysts form as a normal part of the menstrual cycle. Such cysts may include: Follicular cyst, the most common type of ovarian cyst. In menstruation, a follicle containing the ovum (unfertilized egg) will rupture during ovulation. If this does not occur, a follicular cyst of more than 2.5 cm diameter may result.[3] Corpus luteum cysts appear after ovulation. The corpus luteum is the remnant of the follicle after the ovum has moved to the fallopian tubes. This normally degrades within 5–9 days. A corpus lutem that is more than 3 cm is defined as cystic.[3] Thecal cysts occur within the thecal layer of cells surrounding developing oocytes. Under the influence of excessive hCG, thecal cells may proliferate and become cystic. This is usually on both ovaries.[3]

Non-functional cysts may include: An ovary with many cysts, which may be found in normal women, or within the setting of polycystic ovary syndrome. Cysts caused by endometriosis, known as chocolate cysts. Hemorrhagic ovarian cyst Dermoid cyst Ovarian serous cystadenoma Ovarian mucinous cystadenoma Paraovarian cyst Cystic adenofibroma Borderline tumoral cysts

Ovarian Cysts Causes Patient Comments Read 14 Comments Share Your Story The following are risk factors for developing ovarian cysts:

Epithelial cell tumors start from the cells on the surface of the ovaries. These are the most common type of ovarian tumors.Germ cell tumors start in the cells that produce the eggs. They can either be benign or cancerous. Most are benign.Stromal tumors originate in the cells that produce female hormones.