Changes in the hormonal levels in a woman's body sometimes result in the formation of a follicle, a saclike structure that forms inside an ovary when an egg is produced. During normal ovulation, the follicle bursts, releasing an egg, then dissolves in two to three weeks.
Most follicular cysts resolve after six to eight weeks.
The corpus luteum is a yellow glandular mass formed by an ovarian follicle after ovulation. When the structure stays intact, it eventually becomes a cyst. Usually, follicular and corpus luteum cysts have no symptoms. Most health-care providers choose to observe them since they have atendency to go away on their own. Dr. Carolle has a free e-mail newsletter.