I have a question. I am 16 years old and three years ago I suffered from a large ovarian cyst that was large enough to land me in the emergency room, then on bedrest for about two weeks. It was difficult to walk during that time, and I was treated by taking the Pill. I gradually came off of the pill, but I have concerns about my future health. The cyst was large enough that it bled and it’s still a little sensitive in that area around ovulation. Will this affect my ability to concieve in the future? Is there a chance the cyst will return? Are there any other medical problems that I might be more at risk of because of such a large cyst?

Hannah

 

Dear Hannah,

First I want to reassure you that cysts are super common and in fact every month your ovary creates a small cyst when you ovulate or release an egg. Sometimes fluid or blood collects and they can be REALLY PAINFUL, (as you found out!) Some women get a pain like you describe every month when they ovulate which we call MIttelschmertz.

 

Painful cysts do not necessarily mean that you will have trouble conceiving although there are conditions that cause cyst formation like endometriosis and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. (PCOS) These conditions may be associated with problems conceiving but from what you described to me it does not sound like you have either of these. Discuss this with your doctor to be sure. 

Some cysts are cancerous but very rarely in a girl your age. Most ovarian cancers are in postmenopausal women or after they have stopped having periods. Cancerous cysts are rarely painful and are hard to diagnose because they don’t produce symptoms. Ultrasound is a good screen and can tell if cysts may be cancerous or not. Having cysts does not put you at an increased risk for cancer.

Oral contraceptives or the “pill” that you were on, actually prevents cysts and many painful conditions. It even treats PCOS and endometriosis. The pill also decreases your chances of ovarian cancer by 60% and this affect lasts well beyond the time that you stop taking it. 

This painful cyst may have been a one-time deal for you so you don’t need to do anything. Many women are “cyst makers” and have problems with painful cysts throughout their lives. The problem is we don’t know when you could get hit with another one. (Would be a bummer to have it at homecoming dance, during exams, or when you are competing in the big game.) Since we don’t know when you may get hit with another really painful cyst you might want to talk to your doctor about getting back on the pill. 

Here are some links to other good information.

Ovarian Cyst Pamphlet 

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Endometriosis  

Thanks for writing!

Dr. Deb