Ovarian Cyst Diagnosis - cause of acne?

Hi Naomi - I'm sorry you're having to suffer this, and so young too. I have a history of Ovarian cysts and Endometriosis so I can sympathize with the horrible pain cysts can cause (For a long time, my cysts were almost always on right ovary and every time, I worried it was my appendix rupturing -- the pain was that bad!). You're on the right path, seeing Gastro to rule out any digestion related issues and also consulting with OBGYN re: the hormonal changes and cysts.  Every woman is different and every cyst is different. Mine were about your size or smaller -- never large enough to surgically remove them but certainly large enough to cause grief and lots of pain. I am with an HMO and I was worried I wouldn't find a good OBGYN but when I was referred to Dr. A, she and I just clicked and I felt very safe with her medical opinions. She listened to me, she responded to my concerns and soothed my worries. I hope your OBGYN makes you feel well cared for, too.

I know you wrote that you can't take the pill but do you know that there are many, many hormonal treatments that aren't all estrogen based? So many formulas with different hormones are available. Obviously I'm not a Dr or Nurse so you should consult with your OBGYN and ask about your treatment options. After trial and error, we (my OB and I) found a treatment that worked for me via hormonal pill (BC) for well over a year after having a lap surgery to remove the endo and ovary. Lots of women have success with the right hormonal treatment, and lead normal lives with their fertility intact. I'm sure you can find a therapy that prevents the cysts..

I have had acne related to hormonal changes too. I never had issue with acne as a teen or later in life until I had Endometriosis and cysts in my late 30s....yes, it's related to your hormones. At one point, I was on a progestin only pill (POP) and the acne was out of control!! It has mostly subsided now. 

All of your symptoms could be caused by the hormonal issues. I hope your OBGYN is excellent and you can work together to find a good treatment plan. You're doing everything I would do in your situation and you're getting the proper attention. I do hope the ER gave you medication to keep you more comfortable until you can see OBGYN.

I'd recommend Astro Glide lubricant for the vaginal dryness.

Miralax (or the generic equivalent which will save you $$) is a great plan for constipation. It may not produce a bowel movement within a day, but you can take it for up to 7 days if necessary to get your guts moving again. When constipated, I take a stool softener (Docusate Sodium 100 mg) and 2 laxatives (Bisacodyl 5 mg) -- which almost always works for me within 24 hours. Stool softener is key for me to keep the movement soft and comfortable. If the Miralax doesn't work for you and you have no medical issues or allergies preventing you from taking it, try the Bisacodyl. Try to stay hydrated and eat lots of fiber to keep you regular. 

A suggestion: Get a notebook and make notes of all of the questions you have for each doctor so that when you have your appointment, you don't go home upset that you forgot to ask about X. If you're with an HMO, your doctors will all work together to develop a treatment plan. If you're with a PPO plan, make sure to tell each provider that you're also seeing the other specialist...it just helps if they're all on the same page, working toward the same goal = keeping you healthy and comfortable.

You're going to be ok, this too shall pass, Naomi.