Does birth control prevent ovarian cysts from forming?
BY DR. BROOKE WINNERBirth control can play a significant role in managing ovarian cysts, but it works in different ways depending on the type of cyst.
Here’s a clear understanding of how various birth control methods interact with ovarian cysts:
Birth control pills, patches, and the vaginal ring mainly work by preventing ovulation. This helps in reducing the formation of normal ovarian cysts that develop with the menstrual cycle.
IUDs (Intrauterine Devices) can also affect ovulation. Hormonal IUDs may inhibit it, but not all do, especially non-hormonal IUDs, which do not prevent ovulation.
While birth control is effective against normal cysts, it does not prevent abnormal cysts from forming, like endometriomas—cysts that are related to endometriosis and can fill with old blood.
It’s important to note that after surgical removal of an endometrioma, using birth control pills can significantly lower the chance of that particular cyst returning. This information highlights the importance of speaking with your healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing ovarian cysts.
Do you prefer to watch it?
Watch Dr. Brooke Winner explain how birth control methods affect ovarian cyst formation and recurrence in this short video.
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