Functional Ovarian Cysts

What Increases Your Risk

A functional ovarian cyst sometimes develops during the latter part of the menstrual cycle, when an egg follicle fills up with fluid. Factors that may increase your risk for developing a functional ovarian cyst include:

• A history of a previous functional ovarian cyst.
• Current use of clomiphene citrate, such as Clomid or Serophene, to start ovulation. For more information, see the topic Fertility Problems.
• Use of low dose progestin-only contraception (such as some implants, pills, and IUDs).

Tubal sterilization ("having your tubes tied") may increase the risk of functional ovarian cysts.² Further research is necessary to confirm this link.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: November 22, 2006
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.