Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care provider or a doctor who specializes in conditions that affect women (gynecologist).

What you can do

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including those that seem unrelated to the reason for the appointment, and when they began
• All medications, vitamins and other supplements you take and the doses
• Your medical history, including menstrual irregularities
• Questions to ask your doctor

Take a family member or friend with you, if possible, to help you remember the information you're given.

Questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's likely causing my symptoms?
• What tests might I need?
• Are my cysts likely to resolve on their own or will I need treatment?
• Do you have printed materials or brochures I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Questions your doctor might ask include:

• How often do you have symptoms?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• Do your symptoms seem related to your menstrual cycle?
• Does anything improve your symptoms?
• Does anything make your symptoms worse?