Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or growths that form on the ovaries. The ovaries produce an egg each month. They also produce the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone.

What is going on in the body?

Ovarian cysts usually occur in women during reproductive years. If a cyst is discovered before puberty or after menopause, it may be cancerous. Other more common types of cysts occur throughout life and include:

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Ovarian cysts are quite common. There are two types: functional and abnormal. Functional cysts develop as a part of the normal function of the ovary, or ovulation. Functional cysts are usually smaller than abnormal cysts. They generally go away without treatment. Abnormal cysts are often caused by an imbalance of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Most cysts are benign, or noncancerous.