What Is an Ovarian Cyst, Really?

Written By Grace Parce

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops in or on the ovary. There are several types, but the most common are called functional cysts—and they’re a normal (yes, normal!) part of ovulation.

During your cycle, your ovaries produce follicles, one of which matures and ideally ruptures to release an egg (ovulation). If the follicle doesn’t rupture, it can continue growing and form a follicular cyst. If the follicle does rupture but the structure left behind (the corpus luteum) fills with fluid or doesn’t break down properly, it can form a corpus luteum cyst.

Both types of functional cysts are usually benign and resolve on their own within one to three cycles. However, if hormone imbalances persist—especially low progesterone, estrogen dominance, or anovulatory cycles—they may recur or linger longer. In some cases, they can become large, cause pelvic pain, or disrupt the cycle, which may require monitoring or medical attention.

Other Types of Ovarian Cysts

  • Dermoid cysts: These are benign tumors that contain a mix of tissues, such as hair, fat, or even bone. They develop from embryonic cells and are not related to hormone fluctuations. Dermoid cysts are typically slow-growing and often discovered incidentally during imaging. While many cause no symptoms, larger ones may require surgical removal if they cause pain, pressure, or risk of ovarian torsion.

  • Endometriomas: Also called "chocolate cysts," these are cysts filled with old, dark blood resulting from endometrial tissue growing on the ovaries. They're a common feature of endometriosis and can be associated with chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, and fertility challenges. Management may include anti-inflammatory strategies, hormone-balancing approaches, or surgical removal depending on severity and symptoms.

  • Cystadenomas: These are benign growths that develop from the outer surface of the ovary and may be filled with watery or mucous fluid. They’re not hormonally driven but can grow quite large and cause discomfort. Because of their size and potential to twist or rupture, they often require monitoring or surgical removal.

  • Polycystic ovaries (PCOS): In PCOS, the ovary contains multiple immature follicles that failed to ovulate due to disrupted hormone signaling. These are not true cysts, but fluid-filled sacs that are a reflection of chronic anovulation and often linked to insulin resistance, inflammation, and elevated androgens. Treatment focuses on addressing the root metabolic causes through diet, lifestyle, and hormone support.

Why Cysts Form: It’s Not Random

Cysts usually form when something interferes with healthy ovulation, including:

  • Hormonal imbalances (low progesterone, estrogen dominance)

  • Insulin resistance (common with PCOS)

  • Iodine deficiency (linked to cystic tissue like fibrocystic breasts and ovaries)

  • Chronic stress (can suppress ovulation)

  • Poor estrogen detoxification (via liver and gut pathways)

Some women are more sensitive due to genetic factors (like MTHFR) that impair estrogen metabolism and histamine clearance—both of which can increase cyst risk.

What to Do (and Not Do) If You’re Told You Have a Cyst

  1. Don’t panic. Most cysts resolve on their own.

  2. Track your cycle. Know if and when you’re ovulating.

  3. Support ovulation naturally. Eat enough, manage stress, and prioritize rest—especially in your luteal phase.

  4. Support estrogen detox. Cruciferous veggies, fiber, daily poops, and liver support (like milk thistle or dandelion root).

  5. Check your minerals. Especially zinc, magnesium, iodine, and B6.

  6. Ask questions. Don’t jump to surgery or hormonal suppression without understanding why your cysts are forming.

Preventing Recurring Cysts: What Really Works

  • Eat enough (especially in your luteal phase)

  • Balance blood sugar (focus on protein, fat, fiber)

  • Support estrogen detox pathways (liver + gut)

  • Reduce inflammation and histamine load

  • Replete minerals (zinc, magnesium, B-complex, iodine)

  • Track your cycle to catch early signs of imbalance

  • Avoid endocrine disruptors

Final Word: You’re Not Broken

Ovarian cysts are not your body’s failure. They’re communication.

Whether it’s a sign of disrupted ovulation, hormone imbalance, inflammation, or nutrient depletion—your body is giving you data. And the good news is, you can support your body in healing.

✨ Start with my Hormone Health Resource Bundle to support your cycle naturally.

And share this post with a friend who’s tired of being dismissed or confused about her body. The answers are here—and they’re yours to reclaim.

References

Grace Parce
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