What are the risk factors for developing ovarian cysts?

Oral contraceptive/birth control pill use decreases the risk of developing ovarian cysts because they prevent the ovaries from producing eggs during ovulation.

The following are possible risk factors for developing ovarian cysts:

• History of previous ovarian cysts
  
• Irregular menstrual cycles
  
• Increased upper body fat distribution
  
• Early menstruation (11 years or younger)
  
• Infertility
  
• Hypothyroidism or hormonal imbalance
  
• Tamoxifen therapy for breast cancer
  
• Ovarian cancer and cancer that has spread to outside the ovary