An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or within the ovary. Ovarian cysts can vary in size from small, pea-sized cysts to large cysts that can grow up to several inches in diameter. Most ovarian cysts are benign and do not cause any symptoms, but some can cause pain or other complications.
Ovarian cysts can develop in women of all ages, but they are most common in women who are of reproductive age. Some ovarian cysts are related to the menstrual cycle and can go away on their own after a few weeks, while others may require medical intervention.
Ovarian cysts can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, or a previous ovarian surgery.
Ovarian cysts can be diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, medical history, and diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or MRI.