Maybe Ovarian Caner or Cyst?

Im 20 years old. I had my last pap about 9 months ago when I started getting the depo shot. For the past two weeks I have had my period, bad lower back pain, severe cramping, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, nausea, and my appetite is very rare. My family has a history of ovarian cancer and my mom had a scare last year but tests came out negative. Does this sound like I could I have something wrong with my ovaries? I don't know much about it and was hoping someone could tell me if I should look into it more?
Thanks

[recoverywoman]

Hi there Cassaundra.

I have often driven myself nuts whenever I had a whole list of symptoms.... and feared the worst. A very learned Dr. once told me that "nowhere is it written that every symptom you have is related to one big illness." Often there are several minor issues flaring up at the same time and they are all exacerbated by stress.

In my opinion, the best thing to do is to see a Dr., discuss your symptoms and your family history and request an exam and a transvaginal ultrasound. (This is a relatively simple test and is painless except for the pressure they have to put on a full bladder.)

The symptoms you describe can be from any number of causes.  I think in any event some testing is in order so as to ease your mind and make sure that you dont have anything that needs to be treated.

With a family history of ovarian cancer, you might want to take an aggressive approach to protecting your health. From what I understand, this means having frequent ultrasounds, learning what symptoms to watch for and perhaps getting appropriate blood screenings (CA-125). Of course a Dr. will give you all the information you need. Find one in whom you have confidence. Check credentials. You can go online to your State Board of Medical Examiners and check out where they schooled, interned, and whether there were any malpractice claims or other disciplinary actions against them.

I believe you will be OK and I also believe that better safe than sorry. Go and get your peace of mind.

God bless you.

[MickeyVicki]

Yes, you should consult with your doctor, especially considering the family history.  However, you should also ask if your symptoms might be unwanted side effects of the Depro-Provera shots.