Ovarian cysts are common fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries. While many are harmless and resolve naturally, some can cause discomfort or complications. Hormonal birth control is often used to manage these cysts, primarily by altering the body’s natural cycle to influence their formation and prevent future occurrences of certain types.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or within an ovary. They are very common, with most women experiencing at least one. The most prevalent types are “functional cysts,” which are a normal part of the menstrual cycle. These include follicular cysts, which form if a follicle (the sac holding a maturing egg) does not release the egg and instead fills with fluid. Another type is a corpus luteum cyst, which develops after an egg is released, if the sac reseals and fills with fluid.
While functional cysts are benign and typically resolve within one to two menstrual cycles, other less common types of ovarian cysts exist, such as dermoid cysts, endometriomas, or cystadenomas. Hormonal birth control primarily addresses functional cysts by preventing their formation, rather than treating these other, less common types.
How Hormonal Birth Control Works
Hormonal birth control methods, including pills, patches, and vaginal rings, contain synthetic versions of hormones like estrogen and progestin. These hormones work by regulating the body’s reproductive system, primarily by stopping ovulation. The synthetic hormones signal the brain to suppress the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are essential for egg development and release.
By maintaining a steady level of these synthetic hormones, the body’s natural hormonal fluctuations that trigger ovulation are prevented. This prevents the ovaries from receiving the signal to mature and release an egg each month. This suppression of ovulation is how birth control impacts ovarian cyst formation.
Preventing New Cysts
Hormonal birth control helps prevent the formation of new functional ovarian cysts by consistently suppressing ovulation. Functional cysts, such as follicular and corpus luteum cysts, arise from the normal process of ovulation. Preventing ovulation directly reduces the chance of these cysts forming, as follicular development that can lead to a fluid-filled sac is halted.
This continuous suppression of the monthly ovulatory cycle significantly lowers the likelihood of new functional cysts developing. For individuals prone to recurrent functional cysts, this preventive mechanism is a primary reason why birth control is often recommended. By controlling the menstrual cycle, hormonal contraception helps to stabilize the ovarian environment and reduce the conditions that lead to new cyst formation.
Impact on Existing Cysts
While hormonal birth control is effective at preventing new functional ovarian cysts, it generally does not shrink or eliminate cysts that have already formed. Existing functional cysts often resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles without any intervention. Therefore, birth control’s role is not to treat a current cyst but to prevent future ones.
Despite not directly reducing existing cysts, hormonal birth control can still offer benefits for individuals experiencing cyst-related symptoms. It helps regulate the menstrual cycle, which can alleviate common issues like pelvic pain or irregular bleeding associated with ovarian cysts.
When Birth Control is Prescribed for Cysts
Birth control is often prescribed for ovarian cysts in specific clinical scenarios, particularly when individuals experience recurrent functional cysts. By preventing ovulation, it reduces the likelihood of new cysts developing in those who are prone to them. It can also be considered to help manage symptoms linked to ovarian cysts, such as chronic pelvic pain or irregular menstrual cycles, by providing hormonal regulation.
The decision to prescribe birth control depends on individual circumstances, including the type and size of cysts, the presence of symptoms, and a patient’s overall health history. Healthcare providers may recommend it as a long-term management strategy to prevent future cyst development and improve quality of life for those affected.