Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Cause Ovarian Cysts? Insights and Risks

Luteal cysts caused by emergency contraceptive pills?

Hello, doctor.
I started taking the oral contraceptive pills Aikij and Yuekij from October 2019 to April 2020, and after taking them for six months, I stopped.
In June of this year, I suddenly experienced acute abdominal pain and sought medical attention, where it was discovered that I had a 4 cm ovarian cyst causing ovarian torsion.
After a follow-up appointment a month later, the cyst had grown to 5 cm, and I underwent surgery to have it removed.
Post-surgery, the doctor informed me that it was a ruptured corpus luteum cyst.
After recovering, I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who suggested that taking oral contraceptive pills could have caused the corpus luteum cyst.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Is it possible that oral contraceptive pills can cause corpus luteum cysts? 2.
Is it advisable for me to continue using oral contraceptive pills for contraception in the future?

tina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/06

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Thank you for your question.
Taking contraceptive pills does not cause corpus luteum cysts and is not related to their rupture.
Generally, surgery does not involve the removal of the entire ovary.
Therefore, using contraceptive pills in the future should not be an issue, but it is still recommended to have regular check-ups with a gynecologist.

Reply Date: 2020/08/06

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and hormonal contraceptives, such as the ones you mentioned (愛己 and 悅己), can indeed have various effects on the ovaries, including the potential development of ovarian cysts. However, it is essential to understand the context and mechanisms behind this.

1. Ovarian Cysts and Hormonal Contraceptives: Hormonal contraceptives work by regulating the hormonal cycle to prevent ovulation. In some cases, they can lead to the formation of functional ovarian cysts, such as follicular cysts or corpus luteum cysts. These cysts are generally benign and often resolve on their own without treatment. The use of hormonal contraceptives can sometimes mask the symptoms of these cysts, making them less noticeable until they become larger or cause complications, such as pain or torsion.

2. Yellow Body (Corpus Luteum) Cysts: The yellow body, or corpus luteum, forms after an ovary releases an egg during ovulation. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum typically degenerates. However, if it fills with fluid or blood, it can become a cyst. While hormonal contraceptives can alter the normal ovulatory process, they do not directly cause corpus luteum cysts. Instead, they may influence the hormonal balance in a way that could lead to the development of such cysts in some individuals.

3. Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs): ECPs are designed to prevent ovulation or fertilization after unprotected intercourse. They are not intended for regular use and are not the same as regular hormonal contraceptives. While ECPs can disrupt the normal hormonal cycle temporarily, there is limited evidence to suggest that they directly cause ovarian cysts. However, the hormonal fluctuations they induce could potentially lead to the formation of cysts in susceptible individuals.

4. Future Use of Hormonal Contraceptives: If you have a history of developing ovarian cysts, especially if they have caused complications like torsion, it is crucial to discuss your contraceptive options with a healthcare provider. They can help assess your individual risk factors and determine the most suitable method of contraception for you. In some cases, alternative methods, such as non-hormonal contraceptives (e.g., copper IUDs), may be recommended to avoid the potential risk of cyst formation associated with hormonal methods.

5. Monitoring and Follow-Up: If you have experienced ovarian cysts in the past, regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential. They may recommend periodic ultrasounds to monitor ovarian health, especially if you choose to continue using hormonal contraceptives. This proactive approach can help identify any issues early and manage them effectively.

In conclusion, while there is a potential link between hormonal contraceptives and the development of ovarian cysts, the relationship is complex and influenced by various factors, including individual hormonal responses and pre-existing conditions. It is essential to have open discussions with your healthcare provider about your contraceptive options and any concerns you may have regarding ovarian health. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

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