Endometriosis & Ovarian Cysts

In the course of the last 2 weeks, I have been suffering with severe endo pain. Over a week ago I was rushed to the emergency center for significant pain on my right side and lower abdominal area. Granted the second time I was admitted into hospital was also gastritis related. Nevertheless, my body was so sensitive during the palpating abdominal examination I did not know what to do with myself. My body was quaking with pain. Turns out it was not just the symptomatic bile gastritis flare-up, but after an iodine CT scan they also found a cyst on my right ovary. 

What is an ovarian cyst? 

A cyst can be a solid or fluid filled sack that sits on the ovary. Strangely, ovarian cysts are common and usually do not require intervention as they are asymptomatic. They can dissipate on their own. However, larger cysts can cause symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bloating, or create a heavy feeling in the abdomen.

Large or small, if you are experiencing discomfort or pain, it is best to consult a doctor. This is not about the size; it is about your personal quality of life being threatened by nagging pain on a daily basis. 

There are many different types of cysts; follicular cyst, corpus luteum, cystadenoma, dermoid cyst, and an endometrioma. For more information, please visit the MayoClinic website: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cysts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353405

Is the cyst from endometriosis? 

If a cyst is from the endometriosis, it is usually an endometrioma. This is when similar tissue that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus and can attach itself to the ovary causing a cyst.

What is my treatment plan for the symptomatic cyst? 

The cyst will be surgically removed along with any endometriosis seen during the laparoscopy surgery. My doctor advised me to have the Mirena implant inserted directly after as further treatment for the endometriosis. Surgery was not the first option there are many factors that play a role in this decision such as the level of pain even with oral contraception treatment, when was the last surgery done? and any clear growths causing significant discomfort seen on scans. 

Every medical decision for any type of treatment comes with risks or side effects. Pros and cons. There have been complaints to the FDA regarding Mirena, but there have also been claims to say the benefits outweigh the risks. This is a decision each woman has to make for themselves. It is saddening that our options are limited in treating endometriosis and I hope that there is a cure in future.

I am hopeful for full recovery with some level of normalcy returned to my life even if it is just for a few months. I am excited about the prospects.