Ovarian cysts are primarily caused by factors related to the menstrual cycle and hormonal changes in the body. The most common causes include:
- Functional cysts : These form when the follicle (the sac that contains the egg) either does not rupture to release the egg (follicular cyst) or when the follicle seals off after releasing the egg and fluid builds up inside (corpus luteum cyst). These cysts are linked to normal ovulation and hormone fluctuations and usually go away on their own.
- Hormonal problems : Conditions affecting hormone levels, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or the use of fertility drugs to induce ovulation, can lead to cyst formation.
- Endometriosis : Tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, sometimes attaching to the ovaries and forming cysts called endometriomas.
- Pregnancy : Sometimes cysts develop during pregnancy and may persist throughout.
- Pelvic infections : Severe infections spreading to the ovaries (pelvic inflammatory disease) can cause cyst formation.
- Abnormal cell growth : Noncancerous growths such as dermoid cysts or cystadenomas can develop from cells in or on the ovary.
- Other risk factors : Smoking, obesity, use of certain hormone therapies (e.g., tamoxifen), and a history of previous ovarian cysts also increase the likelihood of cyst formation.
Most ovarian cysts are benign and related to normal ovarian function, especially in women of reproductive age. After menopause, cysts are less common and carry a higher risk of malignancy, requiring careful evaluation.
