Definition: Functional ovarian cysts are small, thin, fluid-filled sacs that can develop from follicles or the corpus luteum. These cysts are under the influence of hormone cycles in a female's body.
Functional ovarian cysts usually go away on their own by shrinking over time. In other cases, they may go away as the result of leaking or rupturing. Fluid is expressed which can cause irritation and pain, but the body quickly absorbs it.
Functional ovarian cysts are not tumors, which are actual abnormal cell growths or lumps on the ovary.
Pronunciation: FUNK-shun-ahl
Also Known As: physiologic cyst
Examples: The doctor felt an ovarian mass during pelvic examination, but the ultrasound showed it to be a probably functional cyst.
