Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Concerns, and Pregnancy Chances - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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I went to the gynecologist and found that I have ovarian cysts.
My period was due on May 21 but hasn't arrived.
I took a pregnancy test and it was negative, but I keep feeling nauseous, experiencing pain on both sides of my abdomen, and I have breast tenderness.
Could this be ovarian cancer? Also, I took a pregnancy test on the 9th day and it was negative; what are the chances of being pregnant?

Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, a pregnancy test usually requires at least 12 days after conception to yield accurate results.
It is advisable to use preventive measures beforehand.
If there is fluid accumulation in the ovaries, it may indicate the presence of a cyst; if it is not large, monitoring is sufficient.
If your period is more than a week late, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/05/27

More Info


Understanding ovarian cysts and their implications for pregnancy can be quite complex, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and breast tenderness. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity on the situation.

Firstly, ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form on the ovaries. They are quite common and often occur during the menstrual cycle. Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve on their own without treatment. However, they can sometimes cause symptoms, particularly if they grow large or rupture. Common symptoms of ovarian cysts include pelvic pain, bloating, and changes in menstrual cycles. In some cases, they can lead to more severe symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain or nausea, which may require medical attention.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing persistent nausea and pain in both sides of your abdomen, along with breast tenderness. These symptoms can be associated with hormonal changes, especially if you are close to your expected menstrual period. The absence of your period, coupled with negative pregnancy tests, may indicate that your body is experiencing some hormonal imbalance, possibly due to the presence of ovarian cysts.

Regarding your concern about ovarian cancer, it is important to note that while ovarian cysts can sometimes be a cause for concern, the vast majority are not cancerous. Factors that may increase the risk of ovarian cancer include age (most commonly diagnosed in women over 50), family history of ovarian or breast cancer, and certain genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2). If you are under 30 and have no significant family history of cancer, the likelihood of having ovarian cancer is quite low.

As for your question about the chances of pregnancy, if you have been experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and have had negative pregnancy tests, it may indicate that ovulation is not occurring regularly. This can be due to hormonal imbalances, which are often seen in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or due to the presence of ovarian cysts. If you are trying to conceive, it is essential to monitor your ovulation and menstrual cycle closely.
If you have been trying to conceive for an extended period without success, it may be beneficial to consult with a fertility specialist. They can conduct further evaluations, including hormone level tests and imaging studies, to determine the underlying causes of your symptoms and any potential fertility issues.
In summary, while ovarian cysts can cause discomfort and may affect your menstrual cycle, they are not typically associated with cancer, especially in younger women. If you continue to experience symptoms or have concerns about your reproductive health, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance and treatment options to help manage your symptoms and improve your chances of conception.

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