What Causes Most Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are sac like structures filled with fluid within an ovary. The term cyst pertains to a fluid filled structure; hence all cysts contain some amount of fluid. Ovarian cysts are common occurrences in women and in most cases are benign. Any ovarian follicle that has grown to be more than 2 centimeters in size is considered an ovarian cyst. There are different types of ovarian cysts the most common of which is the functional cyst which is not of any harm. However, there are four other types of ovarian cysts that can occur (dermoid, endometrial, cystenedoma and polycystic) that may be me harmful.
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Where does it come from?
The cause of an ovarian cyst may vary depending on the type of ovarian cyst that is present. The most common cause of an ovarian cyst is a result of the growth of a follicle. During the process of menstruation multiple follicles are recruited, however only a single follicle will produce enough estrogen, develop and release a mature oocyte during mid cycle. As the egg matures within an amount of fluid is collected around the egg as it develops. In some cases the egg is not released into the fallopian tube and continues to grow, sometimes up to a period of three months before it dissolves into the bloodstream and disappears. The failure of the egg to be released or for the sac to tear or rupture can be traced to the lack of a luteinizing hormone (LH). The LH is released from the brain’s pituitary gland is responsible for signaling the release of the mature egg. Without this the egg remains in the ovary.
It is also possible for the mature egg to be released into the fallopian tube, yet for an ovarian cyst to occur. When the brain’s pituitary gland releases LH and the egg is released from the follicle the production of increased amounts of estrogen and progesterone is then started by the follicle in preparation for conception. The follicle is changed into what is called the corpus luteum. Sometimes however, the tear from which the egg is released fails to close and the sac accumulates fluid which causes the sac to expand. The sac may grow up to four inches in size and twist, rupture or bleed causing pain. In most cases though, the cyst disappears on its own in a few week’s time.
Click here to learn more about what causes ovarian cysts and the best ways to avoid them.
