Recurring Ovarian Cysts

[HHarr]

I am 24, I have recurring ovarian cysts. In 2005 I had a 3 1/2 inch cyst removed off my right ovary by the c-section method. They saved the ovary but now I am having the same problems. I went to the ER and had a CT scan done on my abdomin. The doctor noted that the CT Scan showed bilateral cysts on both ovaries. Both times I have suffered from cysts I was on birth control. Should I be worried about PCOS? I have an appointment with my primary doctor tomorrow to discuss my options as they are now. What exactly could cause them to recur as they do?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Dear HHarr,
If you are on birthcontrol, sometimes that can casue headaches.  If you are having migraines, blurred vision can be part of that. You should also see your primary care physician for an evaluation for this.
best wishes

[HHarr]

I have went back to the doctor just this week (Dec 29). I am still in pain and have had other symptoms occur. I am having blurred vision, pain in my rib cage on the right side, headaches (occasionally migraine), and have felt as though I am buzzed from drinking. The doctor thought I had a thyroid problem and did the test for it, all test came back fine that I had no problem. However, I am still having the problems and the pains from the cysts. The doctor is scheduling me for an MRI this month. He said I had the textbook signs of a thyroid problem and he told me that the cysts were likely caused by the hormone problem. But since there showed no problem in my hormone levels what else could be causing them and the other problems I was having? Any suggestions for me to consider what the problem is?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
recurring ovarian cysts can be tough. It sounds like this is unrelated to a malignant change. If cysts occur even with suppression by birth control pills, the cysts are not related to ovulation.

They can be from benign tumors, infection, adhesions with fluid collection, and endometriosis.

One other intervention to consider and to ask your doctor about before surgery is lupron.  This puts you into artificial menopause. It is a good way to confirm that the cysts are not from ovulation. It can also be helpful if the cysts are from endometriosis.
best wishes

[MVanS]

I have recurring cysts as well.  I am on birth control and have cystadenomas which are not affected by my pills.  I had laproscopic surgery jut over a year ago and a year later they are back and as big.  I don't know why they recur but I do know it it a 15-25% chance of recurrence.  It stinks especially having to go thru all of the pain again and make another surgical decision.  For now I am opting to not undergo surgery.  I will live with the pains until I no longer can.  I am so sorry you are in pain but if it makes you feel any better, you aren't alone.
Best of luck!

[heather_r]

I have no idea why they recure if someone does it would be great. I also have painful ones often that have to be removed. I am on Birth control every time. The transverse surgery is a lot worse and longer recovery that laprascopic. I am trying to get into Dr now to be checked again. I had a baby 5 months ago and just now starting to have pain the last month. Just discuss it all with your Dr. at your app. Hope it goes well..

[glamgirl012]

could you tell me what symptoms led you to find out that you had ovarian cysts?  I have an appt with my doctor tomorrow, but i'm wondering if maybe I have one...