Hysterectomy 4 years ago- History of ovarian cysts

[dustylbrown]

I am 44 years old. I had a hysterectomy 4 years ago for fibroids. I have a history of ruptured cysts. Since the surgery I've had issues with painful sex, bladder urgency, trouble emptying bladder and bowel issues. Over the last year I started having severe bloating, nausea, and lower back pain. I started to wonder if I was having trouble with cysts again. I got an ultrasound last week and learned I have a cyst on both ovaries. One is hemorrhagic. I have a follow up ultrasound in 6 weeks to see if they resolve themselves.

My question is do ovarian cysts cause pain with sex, and bladder and bowel issues? I have really been sad that my sex life is dead. I'm really tired of dealing with the cysts. I am considering oophorectomy. I am curious if the pros will outweigh the cons if I go through with it? Will things just get worse?

[old_before_my_time]

I hear you on the bladder and bowel issues! I've had them since my hysterectomy too. I don't have painful sex but I have no libido so no sex happening. I would think that ovarian cysts could exacerbate bladder and bowel issues. Not sure about painful sex. If you've had that since your hysterectomy, then cysts are not likely the cause. That would be more apt to be a vaginal cuff problem, a too short vagina, vaginal atrophy, or endometriosis (if you have that). Hopefully, the cysts will resolve and associated symptoms improve.  

Having had my life upended by the removal of my ovaries (and uterus) and now aware of all the increased health risks and loss of quality of life, I would advise against having your ovaries removed. Studies have shown the importance of both ovaries our whole lives despite the high rate of oophorectomies. I'd be happy to share details if you'd like.