How do you know if you have ovarian cysts?

Question

This has been the most painful period ive ever had. It’s been heavier than usual, I’m on the pill but it’s never been like this. i’ve been so nauseous, headaches, and lower pains and cramps way worse than usual. do you think this could be a cyst or something i should go to the doctor for?

Answer

This is long, I know, but bare with me! Everyone is different, but here is MY personal knowledge with ovarian cysts: First, an ovarian cyst feels very crampy and sharp on one side or the other of your pelvis; like, right below/beside your hip bone. It is a very distinct pain, and once you've been diagnosed with a cyst, you should be able to notice when you have one (that may just be me though, as I am VERY in-tune with my body). Second, having ovarian cysts can, and for the most part will, make your periods heavy and very painful. Third, ovarian cysts can cause other symptoms like nausea. Fourth, as I said, everyone is different, but for me, the doctors couldn't do anything to prevent my ovarian cysts, due to the fact that there are 2 types of hormones in birth control: one type has progesterone, the other has estrogen. One type is supposed to decrease the risk of ovarian cysts, and the other can cause them- I was already taking the type that supposedly decreased the risk of them, so there was nothing they could do. Now, this is my experience with them: In January of 2016, I woke up on New Years Day with EXCRUCIATING pain. I went to my closest hospital, and was told there was nothing there. The next day, I woke up and could barely walk- my husband took me to a farther hospital with better rankings. They did ALL of the same tests as the 1st hospital, and diagnosed me with a hemmorhagic cyst, which could have killed me if it would have burst. I was admitted and in the hospital for 2 days. After we figured out the whole BC thing  I stopped all BC for good, and still have had 1 or 2 small cysts on the same ovary every single month, until I got pregnant (conceived in November of this year). Ovarian cysts are horrible, and I hope that is not what you have. I hope this helps!

How do you know if you have ovarian cysts?

Let's Glow!

The Top Baby Tracker App: Embrace New Beginnings with Tender Care

The Top Fertility Tracker App: Your Path to Achieving Pregnancy

The Top Pregnancy App: Nurturing Your Journey to Motherhood

The Top Period Tracker for Empowering Your Menstrual Health Journey