Ovarian cysts are a common topic, and many people wonder about their connection to birth control. It is a frequent concern whether using birth control can lead to these fluid-filled sacs. This article clarifies the relationship between ovarian cysts and hormonal contraception.
Understanding Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or inside an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are benign and typically do not cause symptoms. The most common types are functional cysts, which form as a normal part of the menstrual cycle. These include follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts.
A follicular cyst develops when the sac containing an egg fails to rupture and release the egg during ovulation. The follicle continues to grow, forming a cyst. A corpus luteum cyst occurs after an egg has been released; the empty follicle normally shrinks but can sometimes reseal and fill with fluid. While these functional cysts are common, other types include dermoid cysts, which can contain various tissues, and endometriomas, which are associated with endometriosis.
How Birth Control Affects Ovarian Cysts
Hormonal birth control, such as pills, patches, and vaginal rings, works by preventing ovulation. These methods introduce synthetic hormones, like estrogen and progestin, which suppress brain signals that trigger egg development and release. They inhibit follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), crucial for follicle maturation and ovulation.
Functional ovarian cysts arise directly from ovulation. Preventing ovulation prevents the formation of these cysts. Therefore, hormonal birth control is often prescribed to reduce recurrent functional cysts. This mechanism helps manage and prevent discomfort and potential complications from frequent cyst development. Studies suggest birth control pills can reduce recurrent ovarian cysts by up to 50%.
Ovarian Cysts While Using Birth Control
While hormonal birth control prevents functional ovarian cysts, individuals using these methods can still experience cysts. Other types, such as dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, or endometriomas, are not related to ovulation and develop independently of hormonal contraception. These non-functional cysts form due to different cellular processes and are not influenced by birth control’s ovulation-suppressing effects.
Infrequent breakthrough ovulation can occur even when using hormonal birth control, especially if doses are missed. If breakthrough ovulation happens, a functional cyst could form. Most cysts, whether functional or other types, are benign and resolve on their own without intervention. However, if a cyst causes pain, grows large, or presents unusual symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for evaluation and management.