Cysts? Endometriosis? IUD? Help!

[TabulaRasa]

Hi there.  I've been having some intense symptoms for the past few months and wanted to get some feedback.  I already spoke with my gyno and had a transvaginal ultrasound done and am now waiting for the results.  I'm not sure what to expect, since I feel like I can't really even articulate my symptoms well.  I just know something doesn't feel right.  Anyway, here goes:

I experience a dull ache in my lower back that radiates to my pelvis and down my thighs to my knees.  A stabbing, wrenching pain mostly near my lower left ovary that's about a 9 on my pain scale.  It comes in random waves about 10-15 seconds long and will last for 1-3 days.  It nearly takes my breath away and has me doubled over.  I do notice the back and ovary pain are at their worst right after my period ends until after ovulation.  During this time I also feel nauseous off and on and have some bowel issues and increased bloating as well.  

I have had the Paragard IUD since April of 2010.  Since having the IUD inserted, my periods are heavier and I do have slightly more intense menstrual cramps during the first or second day, but it's nothing like the stabbing pain I feel in my lower left side.  For the first few months after I got my IUD, I chalked most aches and pains up to being from the insertion and my body getting used to it.  The more intense symptoms have gone on for about 3 cycles now and I do seem to get some mild relief throughout the month and during my period.

I was speaking with my mom who mentioned a cyst or endometriosis, which she had herself when she was younger.  Any ideas?  I'm pretty anxious to get these results.  Thanks for your help!

[fungirl1011]

I wonder if it is possible that you are having cysts rupture.  When a cyst ruptures, you get the sharp stabbing feeling that you are describing.  How often does this happen?  Hope you get answers soon.

[TabulaRasa]

Thanks for all the helpful responses!  It really helps to know that other women are going through the same thing and I'm not crazy!  I certainly hope you ladies find some relief too. :)

My doctor's office called today to let me know that my ultrasound came back normal and my IUD is in its proper place.  That's good to know, but now I'm a bit more frustrated since I'm not sure how to proceed.  The nurse who called me said to follow up with my primary care doctor because the pain may not be gyno-related.  I still absolutely think it is, but I'm willing to do whatever I have to do to figure this out.  My fear is being bounced back and forth from primary doc to gynocologist if neither of them have any clue or aren't willing to investigate properly.  I sometimes feel like if your symptoms don't fit some sort of textbook definition of a medical issue, you're tossed aside.  

I did hear that endometriosis cannot be detected on an ultrasound.  Is that true?  I'm not trying to diagnose myself or anything.  I'd just like to know if it's a legitimate concern I can bring up to my gyno.  Thanks!

[Aww_This_Sux]

I am suffering from the same exact symptoms Ive even had to go to the ER twice for pain relievers that did not work! Ive been diagnosed with ovarian cysts on my right side. Dull stomach pains and severe lower back pain, and pain down thighs. This also has made me very stressed out causing insomnia. Also my mother had this when she was my age as well and she said it stopped after a while. To make you feel any better I did read that 90% of women will go through this in their lifetime. So guess we are part of that 90%. Also to ease pain try not to get worked up on everything that can go wrong. Just relax, take deep breaths, try to eat healthy, and heating pads ease pain. The pain ***** but should pass us up soon!! Cant wait! ...God Bless You.

[Shiann]

i am haveing the same problems and it has been over a mouth please tell me when you find out whats wrong please read mine

[hopeshell]

It does sound suspicious that your IUD may be contributing to your symptoms.  But, a transvaginal ultrasound will be able to determine if you have an ovarian cyst.  I agree with you mom that endo also can cuase these same symptoms.  Unforunately, there is no way to know until you see you gyn and get an ultrasound.  I think it is very important to follow-up on new changes.  It is likely a benign condition that will go away in time.  But, any new persistent symptom is your body's way of telling you that something is amiss.  Good luck on finding answers!

Shelly