Definition: A fluid filled pocket located on the ovary.
Cysts are very commonly found in women who have polycystic ovary syndrome and are, in fact, one of the defining characteristics of the disease. These occur when your body begins growing an egg follicle that does not fully develop or release a mature egg at the end of the menstrual cycle.
Some fertility medications, such as Clomid, may increase your chances of getting these types of cysts at the end of a cycle. Usually, cysts do not cause symptoms and are found using an ultrasound. If you are undergoing fertility treatment and have a cyst, you may require a rest cycle.
There are other types of cysts that are not related to PCOS or fertility treatment. Symptoms of these types of cysts include abdominal pain or discomfort, pain during intercourse or painful periods. Most cysts are not cancerous, though the doctor may want you to undergo further testing to make sure. Treatment is usually not necessary as they usually resolve themselves, although birth control pills can be prescribed if you frequently develop cysts. If a cyst is large, causing a lot of pain or looks suspicious, it may need to be surgically removed.
Common Misspellings: cist
