Ovarian Cysts While Breastfeeding
Question
At my last check-up the physician assistant discovered that my left ovary is enlarged. I went for an ultrasound and there are cysts on that ovary. I have not talked to my healthcare provider yet about it, but from the reading I have done she may suggest the birth control pill or surgery if the cysts do not go away soon or if they are a certain size. I see that Dr. Hilgers recommends progesterone. However, I am not currently cycling due to breastfeeding. I tend to go for long stretches without cycling during breastfeeding. After my first son was born, I started menstruating again at 21 months postpartum and at 25 months postpartum with my second son. My youngest child is four months old currently. Can progesterone still be used considering my situation? Also, why did I develop cysts if I have only had one menstrual cycle in the past four years due to pregnancy and breastfeeding (I conceived my youngest child during my first cycle postpartum)? I do not have the symptoms of polycystic syndrome as far as I know. My pelvic exams have always been normal except for one two years ago. The physician found an enlarged ovary but the subsequent ultrasound did not show any abnormalities.
Answer
Last Updated: July 24, 2013
Mary L. Davenport, M.D.
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