Marla Ahlgrimm: The “Monster” Cyst that Can Trigger Extreme Period Pain

Ovarian cysts are common and often don’t trigger any symptoms, says Marla Ahlgrimm. When they do, they are typically mild and can cause painful intercourse and menstrual irregularities. But sometimes, ovarian cysts are much more than an inconvenience.

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, a teratoma is a type of cyst that contains embryonic cells. This means it is also capable of growing other body parts, including teeth, bones, and hair, all from inside the ovaries. Teratoma is a clinical term loosely translated from Greek as “monster.” Women with this type of cyst in the ovaries may experience extremely painful menstrual symptoms. These may include extreme bleeding, unbearable cramps, and even loss of consciousness from the pain.

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that, while rare, teratoma must be removed as, left untreated, they can turn into ovarian cancer.

The prevalence of teratoma tumors may be understated by the medical community as many women are told their pain and bleeding is a normal part of the menstrual cycle, says Marla Ahlgrimm. Since pain is subjective and heavy bleeding is not uncommon, especially in women over the age of 35, more serious issues often get overlooked.

Marla Ahlgrimm stresses that women who experience pain and discomfort outside what they deem the normal scope of “being a woman with a reproductive system” should press the issue with their healthcare provider. She further asserts that it is in a woman’s best interest to seek a second opinion if their concerns are not being addressed appropriately. The women’s healthcare pioneer underscores the importance of self-advocacy and explains that each woman knows her body best and should listen to their gut when pain sets in.

Ahlgrimm explains that life is too short and the scope of potential reproductive issues too vast to let anything that interferes with daily activities go untreated.