Ovarian Cyst Type Overview

Although usually not a problem, functional ovarian cysts are a problem common to many women. Ovarian cysts can be cancerous however most are not. Most functional ovarian cysts present no obvious symptoms and no treatment is required, however there is a chance ovarian cysts can cause discomfort and some may require treatment.

A follicular cyst can form when a mature follicle falls in on itself or when ovulation fails to take place. Follicular cysts are a simple class of ovarian cyst that usually produces no symptoms. Follicular cysts can grow to approximately 2.3 inches across, but usually disappear by themselves within a few months after their appearance.

A corpus luteum cyst can result when the ovarian gland produces progesterone during ovulation and a egg is released as the menstrual cycle progresses. A round gland called the corpus luteum is filled with fluid and about a inch in diameter when healthy and functioning properly. Generally they appear in the early months or pregnancy or even just at the end of the menstrual cycle and are asymptomatic, healing on their own without symptoms and may never even be noticed.

Hemorrhagic cysts generally hold blood within them. While they don’t have a tendency to burst, when they do burst the loss of blood can cause uncomfortable, even burning feelings in the pelvic area. This type of cyst usually does not require any treatment and is actually quite common. If needed, they can be removed with surgery if the danger of endometriosis is a concern.

Women can develop dermoid cysts at any time and age, but dermoid cysts are a higher risk during the childbearing years. A dermoid cyst is one type of an ovarian cyst that grows from the totipotential germ cell in the ovaries. Tissues such as bone, teeth and hair can form from this ovarian cell. Dermoid cysts may contain solid physical tissue. Sometimes doctors find hair and teeth forming in these cysts. They are commonly removed because they may block the flow of blood to the ovaries.

Included in a pathological ovarian cyst are endometriosis and tumors. These rare cysts can only be diagnosed by a doctor after a thorough examination. A pathological ovarian cyst is a type of tumor that can be either cancerous or non-cancerous and malignant or benign. Tumors must be treated soon after discovery. Tumors generally have thick walls are greater than 6cm in diameter and can be persistent unless treated. An endometrioid cyst, which is different than a tumor, occurs when a section of endometrial tissue becomes transfered into the ovaries after being dislodged. The peak reproductive years are when endometrioid cysts most often occur in women.

Ovarian cysts may differ in type; each type must be diagnosed properly and treated accordingly. Functional cysts are more common than pathological cysts. All women should safeguard their health by learning about ovarian cysts and discussing the possibility of cysts with their physicians.

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