Should I see a doctor?

[clstl6]

My grandmother had ovarian cancer as well as her two daughters (my aunt and mother). I understand that ovarian cancer is passed along genetically and this makes me at high risk for it as well. I have been on the same oral contraceptive for 3 years now and my periods have always been regular, heavy, and lasting about 6 days. My past two periods have been very light and only lasted 3 days. I consistently take my birth control every day at approximately the same time, so despite my sexual activity I don't have a high probability of getting pregnant. I also have no symptoms of a pregnancy. That is the basis for my concern. Is my concerned justified? Could ovarian cancer affect my period? Is there anything else other than pregnancy that could affect it? I go in for my yearly checkup at the end of this year. My insurance won't cover it if I go in early, so I was hoping for some helpful opinions and shared experiences.

[clstl6]

Thank you both for your help. Fortunately, My grandmother survived her treatments, and both my mother and my aunt caught theirs very early and survived. I have yet to express my concerns to them. My grandmother was just recently diagnosed with lung cancer, so I've been reluctant to cause anyone anymore stress. I will take your advice and try getting tested for the BRCA gene. It's comforting to know what my options are. :)

[FrancesCTD]

Are any of your Grandmother, Mother or Aunt still alive. If so they should be tested for the BRCA gene. If they are BRCA positive they can do a predictive search on you to see if you are carrying it to. Also if your mothers family is Jewish you can get this test, even if they are all dead. I would get this test if I were you as you have a 50% chance of having the BRCA gene. Go and see a genetics councillor.
Also regarding your current symptoms, go to the doctor and ask for a Trans Vaginal Scan, given your family history I would not mess about.
OVCA usually only affects women over 50, but can strike much younger in people who are BRCA +ve.
What you have got is probably nothing, but better be safe than sorry, and get tested to exclude any nasties. There is a very good doc on this forum Dr Goodwin who can answer all questions about OVCA.

Take care

Frances

[hopeshell]

You should definitely be very diligent about getting checked regularly and reporting new, persistent symptoms right away.   You have a very strong family history.  Have you been tested for the BRCA gene?  

The change in your cycle could be due to an ovarian cyst or your birth control pills.  Both benign and malignant cysts can cause changes to your period.  The best way to find out if you have a cyst is a transvaginal ultrasound.  I do think your insurance will cover your visit to your gyn if it is for a specific problem.  Certainly, your primary care doctor can order a transvaginal ultrasound for you or refer you to your gyn for this issue.  That way it will be covered.  

Do you have any other symptoms other than the change in your cycle?  You could call your gyn to report this change and explain the insurance issue.  They can help you find a way for an earlier visit to be covered.  It is important that you talk to your doctor about your family history and how often you need to have ultrasounds for screening.   Take care.

Shelly