Prevention

Functional ovarian cysts cannot be prevented if you are ovulating. Anything that makes ovulation less frequent reduces your chance of developing an ovarian cyst. Birth control pills, pregnancy, and breast-feeding in the first 6 months following birth prevent ovulation. Ovulation ceases when menopause is complete.

Women who use high-dose birth control pills have a modestly decreased risk of developing functional ovarian cysts. And low-dose birth control pills seem to have a less preventive effect.²