Does Ovarian Cyst Affect Menstrual Cycle and Pregnancy Tests?

Ovarian cyst and pregnancy test?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if an ovarian cyst can affect menstruation and pregnancy test results.
A few months ago, I discovered that I have an ovarian cyst that is over 10 centimeters in size.
I have been monitoring it for several months, and instead of shrinking, it has actually grown larger.
I have recently scheduled a laparoscopic surgery.
However, my period is now a week late, and the pregnancy test I took is positive.
I'm unsure if the cyst could be influencing the results.
(The initial examination report suggested a higher likelihood of a corpus luteum cyst.) Thank you!

c, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/22

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is possible that you are pregnant.
I recommend discussing this with your physician for further evaluation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/09/22

More Info

Ovarian cysts, particularly larger ones like the 10 cm cyst you mentioned, can indeed have an impact on your menstrual cycle and pregnancy tests. Let's break this down into several key points.

1. Impact on Menstrual Cycle:
Ovarian cysts can disrupt the normal hormonal balance in your body, which is crucial for regulating your menstrual cycle. In particular, functional cysts, such as follicular cysts or corpus luteum cysts, can affect ovulation. If ovulation does not occur, it can lead to irregular periods or even missed periods. In your case, since you have experienced a delay in your menstrual cycle, it is possible that the cyst is influencing this irregularity.

2. Pregnancy Tests:
Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine. This hormone is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you are pregnant, your body will produce hCG, leading to a positive pregnancy test. However, ovarian cysts, particularly those that are functional, do not typically produce hCG. Therefore, a positive pregnancy test in the presence of an ovarian cyst is likely indicative of pregnancy rather than the cyst itself affecting the test results.

3. Types of Ovarian Cysts:
You mentioned that your cyst was initially assessed as a likely corpus luteum cyst. These cysts form after ovulation and usually resolve on their own. However, if they persist or grow larger, they can cause complications, including pain and pressure symptoms. In contrast, other types of cysts, such as dermoid cysts or endometriomas, may have different implications for your menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health.

4. Surgical Considerations:
Since you have scheduled laparoscopic surgery to address the cyst, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider the potential implications of the cyst on your reproductive health. Surgery may help alleviate any symptoms caused by the cyst and could potentially restore normal menstrual function if the cyst was contributing to your irregular cycles.

5. Next Steps:
Given that your pregnancy test is positive, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and assess the cyst. This will help determine if the cyst poses any risk to the pregnancy or if it requires intervention.

Conclusion:
In summary, while ovarian cysts can affect menstrual cycles, a positive pregnancy test is likely a result of pregnancy rather than the cyst itself. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms, the cyst, and your pregnancy status. They will provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensure that both your reproductive health and any potential pregnancy are monitored closely.

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