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An ovarian cyst refers to a sac or pocket filled with fluid or solid material that develops within or on the surface of one or both ovaries. These cysts are a common occurrence in women and can vary in size, ranging from small, undetectable cysts to larger ones that can reach several centimeters in diameter.

In many cases, ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own without causing any symptoms or complications. These are known as functional cysts and are a normal part of the menstrual cycle. There are two main types of functional cysts: follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts.

Follicular cysts form when the sac containing an egg does not rupture to release the egg during ovulation. Instead, it continues to grow, filling with fluid and becoming a cyst. Corpus luteum cysts occur after the release of an egg from the follicle. If the sac does not dissolve as it should, it can fill with fluid or blood, forming a cyst.

While most ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and resolve on their own, some can cause symptoms and potentially lead to complications. Symptoms of an ovarian cyst can vary depending on its size, type, and whether it becomes twisted or ruptures. Common symptoms may include:

1. Menstrual irregularities: Ovarian cysts can disrupt the normal hormonal balance, leading to changes in the menstrual cycle. This can result in irregular periods, lighter or heavier bleeding, or missed periods.
2. Pelvic pain: Larger cysts or those that become twisted (ovarian torsion) may cause pelvic pain. The pain can be dull or sharp and may be felt on one side of the lower abdomen. The intensity and duration of the pain can vary.
3. Pain during intercourse: Some women with ovarian cysts may experience discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
4. Abdominal bloating or swelling: Large cysts or the presence of multiple cysts can cause the abdomen to feel bloated or swollen.
5. Pressure on the bladder or rectum: Depending on the size and location of the cyst, it can exert pressure on nearby organs, leading to increased frequency of urination, difficulty emptying the bladder completely, or changes in bowel movements.

In rare cases, complications can arise from ovarian cysts, such as:

1. Rupture: A cyst can rupture, causing sudden and severe abdominal pain. This may require immediate medical attention.
2. Ovarian torsion: If a cyst becomes large and causes the ovary to twist, it can cut off the blood supply to the ovary. This can lead to intense pain and require prompt medical intervention.
3. Cancerous cysts: While most ovarian cysts are benign, there is a small chance that a cyst could be cancerous, particularly in postmenopausal women. However, the majority of ovarian cysts are non-cancerous.

Diagnosing ovarian cysts typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as ultrasound. Treatment options depend on the size, type, and symptoms associated with the cyst. In many cases, a "wait and see" approach is taken, where the cyst is monitored through regular check-ups to see if it resolves on its own.