Cysts, by definition, are simply fluid filled sacs. They are similar to a blister, but found on the inside of your body. Cysts can form for a variety of reasons, but mainly occur when a normal bodily function experiences a small abnormality. Ok, now that we know what a cyst is, what is an ovarian cyst?

The obvious answer is an ovarian cyst is a cyst located on the ovaries. Ok, you probably figured that one out, but here is how it works. During a normal menstrual cycle, the ovary breaks open to release an egg. In addition, a small sac called a corpus luteum forms that will produce progesterone, a hormone that will help to prepare the lining of the uterus for the egg. During these processes, in either case, an abnormality may cause a cyst to form. Perhaps the ovary did not close properly after it released the egg, or the corpus luteum becomes infected and begins to develop fluid. These two scenarios are the most common causes of ovarian cysts.

Ok, so we know how the cysts form, but is there anything a woman does, diet, lifestyle, etc that makes her more susceptible? The truth is, very little really. Doctors have not had success linking specific activities to ovarian cysts so there are not really any changes you can make to avoid the painful malady. Three risk factors that have been identified include smoking, lack of physical exercise, and improper diet. It is no surprise to see smoking on a list of things to avoid. The results of smoking are all bad, and in the case of causing ovarian cysts, it appears that women who smoke are more than twice as likely to develop ovarian cysts as those who do not. Physical exercise is something else that we know is good for us, but people seldom get enough. Women who work out regularly improve their overall health, and it is suspected that the healthy and stronger circulatory system leads to more efficient functioning in the ovaries thereby lessening the risk of ovarian cysts. Finally, women who do not get enough of the right types of vitamins and minerals are certainly at a higher risk. Many of the vitamins and minerals contained in a regular multivitamin help support health functioning of the ovaries. Without these nutrients, the cells may not be as effective in carrying out their jobs in the reproductive system and this can be a major cause of ovarian cysts. Some of these vitamins and mineral include vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system, zinc, which is vital to normal egg development, and B vitamins which help to support normal hormone levels.

While no one thing has been proven to lead directly to the formation of ovarian cysts, several risk factors do exist. The fact it, most women, no matter what precautions they take, will experience ovarian cysts sometime in their life. Once you have been diagnosed, seek a safe and effective treatment that is right for you. Following this advice can help to lessen the causes of ovarian cysts.

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