[cnr379]

I am 25 years old now, but when I was 14, I had an abnormal ovarian cyst (18 cm) and had to have my whole ovary removed. I was first put on the pill at age 12 because I was bleeding so heavily that I bled through my pads in a very short amount of time. Because I have not been sexually active for the last year I decided to stop taking the pill. My doctors always think "no big deal" when I tell them about my one ovary and what I think is a hormonal imbalance. I'm always tired and moody and have lost interest in almost everything (which is why I haven't had sex in over a year-I just don't want to). I have many friends but Id rather be by myself. I have been experiencing painful periods with large clots (larger than a quarter) but I can't find a doctor who seems to understand that I could have a hormonal imbalance because I only have one ovary. They always want to give me anti depressants or send me to a therapist. It took several ultrasounds ct scans and mris when I was 14 before someone finally realized that what I had was a cyst (the dr actually told my mom I was anatomically incorrect because the huge cyst was blocking the picture of my other organs). I am under A LOT of stress lately but am worried that the heavy clotting could be more serious. Any ideas before I go to the doctor and they tell me I'm normal because I'm young? (I hear that so much that I'm completely fed up with doctors.) So to sum it all up... I have one ovary, depression like symptoms, and large blood clots w heavy bleeding (at least 2 super plus tampons every hr), mood swings and painful cramps and bloating. Not to mention, I experience hot flashes and night sweats even when I'm not on my period. I feel like I'm losing my mind! Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated!

[DoulaLC]

You might want to go in and tell them to just humor you. Let them know that you understand that usually the one ovary would just take over and things will continue normally, but that you are concerned, given all that you are feeling, and would like a full panel done to rule out any possible concerns. Make a list of the symptoms you have been experiencing, note if they are more pronounced just prior or during your period.

Be sure you see a gyn. If you already have, you may need to see a different one. Perhaps a friend, coworker, or relative could refer you to someone they like.