Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Functional ovarian cyst

A functional ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the ovary. A sac normally forms during ovulation to hold a maturing egg. Usually, the sac goes away after the egg is released. But if a mature egg is not released or if the sac reseals after releasing the egg, the sac can swell up with fluid. This forms a functional ovarian cyst.

Most of these cysts do not cause symptoms and they go away by themselves. Some cause mild pain. Others can cause severe pain when they rupture or bleed.

Current as of: November 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.