Could it be an ovarian cyst

[Whatawoman]

I have always had more cramping, swelling and pain related to ovulating than actually menstruating... but the last couple of months it has been intense pain and aching and bloating and for the first time the pain has radiated round my back too -  also it has not been just the 3-4 days around ovulation but most of the rest of the month.

My periods are pretty regular and always last 3-4 days -  but Feb an March they were irregular and very heavy and alsted 6 days then April May I was back to normal. I put it down to my stress levels and dealing with Post Traumatic Stress.

I am being investigated for breast cancer and get biopsy results on Tuesday -  but this month my breasts have been swollen and tender and much more lumpy than normal.They were overflowing my bra and I was very uncomfortable and very self consious. I finished my period on Monday then today I have an increase in pain around my left ovary, a general cramping in my lower abdomen and now a brownish, discharge.

I am not sexually active (have not been for 4 years) so I can rule out STD's. I had my cervical smear 3 weeks ago and am still waiting on results but I have one every 3 years and it has always been clear.

Right now I am being treated for PTSD and my breast lump -  so I don't want to go back to the GP with yet another problem as I am worried they will think I am becoming a hypocondriac or paranoid....But I am also worried about the increase in pain and cramping.

What are the main symptoms of an ovarian cyst -  and is there anything I can do to get a clearer picture of what is causing my pain and cramping?

[Sharon2714]

i thought i was lucky
i never had pms or an ovarian cyst or irregular or bad periods ... until now
adenomas were so off my radar when i had my TVUS it was surreal
i just learned yesterday that only i can direct my doctors to try to help me feel better
please have a TVUS as it is the only way to rule things out
even on an internal exam my family doc thought it was a baby because she didnt
have Xray eyes to really know they were just really BIG cysts
i worry for so many people who have no knowledge that the only way to
find cysts or even suspect the big ca word is to have a TVUS

i pray all who read this get themselves screened and find absolutely nothing
love n prqayerz n stuff
sharon

[TrudieC]

I also, unfortunately, have a GP who likes to jump to conclusions without doing the work.  I've proven him wrong many a time with the last one being my cyst issues.  Without examining me he put me on anti-ulcer medication.  Ugh!  If I were you I would not have the coil inserted until after you have at least had a transvaginal Ultrasound done.  Perhaps you could take your pain and go to the ER where they are likely to give you a test?

[Whatawoman]

Saw my GP today re the ovary pain, pelvic cramping, abdominal swelling, 4 days of discharge and tender breasts -  She didn't even examine me but siad because i always have a difficult time ovulating - ( in respect of it being painful and I get worse PMS symptoms when I ovulate than when I am actually on) -  that the best thing to do was stop me ovulating and then see if I am still getting the symptoms -  she suggested having a Mirena Coil fitted -  I cant use a hormone patch because of having breast lumps....so on 14th of July I am having this coil fitted -  I can expect abnormal bleeding for three months then no periods for 5 years -  sounds good to me!

I am 35 so she was concerned about if I wanted more children -  bu I assured her that wasn't an issue as after my ex husband tried to kill me I have not let another man into my personal space let alone have a sexual relationship... so more childrena re not on my agenda.

When I have the coil  fitted I will get a thorough internal so she saw no point doing one today. I have a backward and left tilted cervix and uterus s she thinks I might be having a prolapse womb too which could account for the dragging and cramping pains.
I went in expecting an internal and an ultrasound referal so came out a little confused... but we will see what surpressing the hormones does - she calls it switching my ovaries off. I am to keep a daily diary of symptoms.

Does anyone else think this consult was a little less than thorough...?

[Whatawoman]

Thanks Angie,
I will go to the GP, yet again with this new complaint... I am so tired of my body not liking me!
Helen

[silver&gold]

Hi,
Ovarian cysts can cause many symptoms , including the ones you describe . I think you really should go back to your GP , cysts can cause hormonal imbalances and may even be connected to your other health issue.
If your GP thinks you are a hypercondriac for being sensible and pro active with your health then its time for a change !!! . Pain is not normal and you need a trans vaginal ultrasound to see if there is a cyst there.
Please make an appointment and let us know how you get on .

Best wishes Angie