Follicles form in the ovaries every month, similar to cysts. Follicles produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone and release the egg when you ovulate. Sometimes a monthly normal follicle continues to grow, in which case it is called a functional cyst. This means that this cyst formed during the normal function of the menstrual cycle.
There are 2 types of functional cysts:
Follicular Cyst: Towards the middle of the menstrual cycle, the pituitary gland in your brain releases the hormone LH, signaling this follicle to release the egg. When everything goes according to plan, the egg leaves the follicle and begins its journey towards the fallopian tubes, where fertilization will take place.
Follicular cyst occurs when the LH surge does not occur. As a result, the follicle does not crack and does not release the egg. Instead, it grows and turns into a cyst. Such cysts are generally harmless, rarely painful, and usually disappear spontaneously within 2-3 menstrual cycles.
Corpus luteum Cyst: When the LH hormone is increased and the egg is released, the cracked follicle begins to produce greater amounts of estrogen and progesterone to enable pregnancy. This altered follicle is now the corpus luteum. Sometimes, however, the exit gate of the egg is blocked and fluid builds up inside the follicle, causing the corpus luteum to form a cyst.
Although this cyst usually resolves spontaneously within a few weeks, it can also form a 7 cm cyst; It can cause internal bleeding, cause rotation of the ovary, interfere with the blood supply, and cause abdominal pain. If it fills with blood, the cyst may rupture, causing internal bleeding and sudden severe pain.