Ovarian cyst

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A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can grow in any part of the body. They can vary in size and contain liquid that is thin and watery, or thicker and paste-like. Some cysts are solid and may be called tumours. This doesnâ€™t mean theyâ€™re cancerous; tumour is just the medical name for a swelling.

An ovarian cyst is a cyst that develops inside an ovary. The ovaries are two small, round organs in the female reproductive system that release an egg every month. The egg moves into the uterus (womb) where it may be fertilised by a manâ€™s sperm. The ovaries also make the hormones oestrogen and progestogen, which help to regulate the menstrual cycle (periods).

Each month, an egg is formed in a tiny structure inside the ovary called a follicle. The follicle contains fluid to protect the egg as it grows and bursts when the egg is released. Sometimes a follicle doesnâ€™t release an egg, or doesnâ€™t shrink (shed its fluid) after the egg is released. If this happens, the follicle can get bigger as it swells with fluid. This is an ovarian cyst.

Ovarian cysts can grow five or six centimetres wide and usually last four to six weeks. Theyâ€™re very common, normally painless, and usually go away without treatment.