Ovarian Cysts
What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sac-like structures found on the ovaries of women of varying age groups. Although these cysts are considered to be generally harmless, it may considerably endanger the life of a woman when these sacs rupture and cause excessive bleeding. The pain that is associated with the complications is also excruciatingly severe that it starts to interfere with the normal daily living of the patient. An ovarian cyst tends to grow on its own and the process of their growth must be fully known to facilitate a better understanding of this specific condition.
Anatomy
Anatomically, a woman has two ovaries that are the sites for production and storage of egg cells. 
These cells are enclosed inside a sac that ruptures each month to allow one cell to go out, typically signaling signals the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Abnormalities in the process of the menstrual cycle tend to happen and this is one of the main causes for the development of an ovarian cyst called the functional, or physiologic, type of cyst. Other causes include tamoxifen drug use, hormonal disturbances (hypothyroidism), infertility, and early onset of menses (younger than 11 years old).
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Aside from functional cysts, other classifications of ovarian cysts are endometriotic and neoplastic cysts. Endometriotic cysts are oftentimes referred to as chocolate cysts, because the structures inside the sac looks like chocolate, but are actually made up of old blood. This particular type of cyst mostly present with pain especially at the onset and the end of each menstrual period. Neoplastic cysts, on the other hand, may be malignant, borderline, or benign. Benign cysts are generally harmless while borderline and malignant ones must not be left untreated.
Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Cysts inside the ovary are oftentimes asymptomatic and the diagnosis is usually made by a gynecologist during a routine physical examination, or is accidentally seen during pelvic ultrasound. If symptoms are present however, it would be in the form of pain: usually sudden and sharp, felt in the lower abdominal area which may come and go, and pain when moving the bowels, during urination, and after sexual intercourse. A feeling of pressure in the pelvic area, blood spots from the vagina, nausea, vomiting, and irregular menses may also be present.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts
Diagnostic tools for ovarian cysts include a thorough pelvic examination, pelvic ultrasound and laparoscopic procedures. Alpha-feto protein (AFP) and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) levels are also determined to discard the possibility of germ cell tumors. Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans are may also be used.