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What are the the Different Polycystic Fibrosis Symptoms?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Polycystic fibrosis is a medical condition that affects the female reproductive system. Although each woman is affected differently, some of the more common symptoms include menstrual irregularities, cyst formation on the ovaries and in the uterus, and infertility. Some additional symptoms often include increased body hair, abdominal pain, and an increase in blood pressure levels.

Menstrual irregularities are common polycystic fibrosis symptoms. These irregularities can take several forms, depending on the individual situation. This condition can delay the onset of a girl's first period or can cause a woman to have fewer menstrual periods than normal. Many women with this condition also experience heavy periods, and clots may be present in some cases. For some women, these menstrual irregularities may be the only indicator that this condition may be present.

Ovarian cysts are the most common symptom of polycystic fibrosis.
Ovarian cysts are the most common symptom of polycystic fibrosis.

Hormone fluctuations may cause a variety of symptoms. Some of these include obesity, with heavier fat deposits being particularly common in the abdominal area of the body. Some women may develop varying degrees of secondary male sexual characteristics, including additional facial or body hair as well as the development of a deeper voice. Male-pattern baldness may even develop in some women with this medical condition.

Infertility may be a symptom of polycystic fibrosis.
Infertility may be a symptom of polycystic fibrosis.

Among the most common symptoms of this condition is cyst formation, which often helps the doctor confirm the diagnosis of this condition. There are frequently several small cysts present in the uterus as well as one or both ovaries, although it is possible for these cysts to grow quite large. These cysts can cause considerable pain and discomfort, especially during the menstrual period. If these cysts rupture, the pain can be excruciating and the bleeding can be quite heavy.

Polycystic fibrosis symptoms may include an increase in blood pressure levels.
Polycystic fibrosis symptoms may include an increase in blood pressure levels.

Additional symptoms are possible, although not every woman will experience all of these symptoms. Skin changes are relatively common among women with this condition and may include the development of oily skin, acne, or dandruff. Some women may also experience patches of skin discoloration. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels are often elevated in women who have polycystic fibrosis.

One symptom of polycystic fibrosis may be pain and discomfort.
One symptom of polycystic fibrosis may be pain and discomfort.

Prescription medications can sometimes be used to treat the symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy is a particularly popular treatment method. Some women may notice symptom relief when making dietary changes or taking certain nutritional supplements. In some cases, surgical intervention may become necessary, especially if the cysts are large or a blockage occurs. Any questions or concerns about polycystic fibrosis symptoms or treatment methods should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.

Discussion Comments

sunshined

If someone has polycystic fibrosis symptoms, will the cysts every go away or shrink in size so they don't cause so many problems?

I have a lot of the symptoms mentioned here, but have never been checked for something like this. I was told at one time that cysts in the uterus or ovaries may get smaller once someone goes through menopause.

I am not sure if they were talking about the same kind of cysts, or if this is different than polycystic fibrosis. Depending on how old someone is, it may be beneficial to wait it out awhile and see if the problem gets any better on its on. I don't like taking medication and would also like to avoid surgery if at all possible.

andee

It seems like there are so many complex and frustrating things that women have to deal with when it comes to our reproductive system. I have had polycystic fibrosis for years, and have just learned to live with the symptoms.

Sometimes I have to take a couple days off work because my symptoms are that severe. I am glad that I haven't developed any male sexual characteristics though. This would make dealing with this a whole lot worse than it already is.

John57

@LisaLou-- I ended up having surgery after having similar symptoms. I also had a lot of clotting, and was getting tired of the abdominal pain and ongoing symptoms.

My cysts were in my uterus and even though my doctor told me these would not develop into cancer, I was ready to go through the surgery and have them removed.

This was done on an outpatient basis and I went home after the same day. I still have some abdominal pains from time to time, but the rest of my symptoms have gone away since I had the surgery.

LisaLou

I have always had irregular menstrual cycles, and recently found out that I have polycystic fibrosis. Not only are my periods heavy, but I also have ongoing bleeding that is caused by cysts on my ovaries.

At this point I am at a wait and see situation, and am trying to regulate these symptoms with hormones, but I sure get tired of dealing with this all the time.

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    • Ovarian cysts are the most common symptom of polycystic fibrosis.
      By: joshya
      Ovarian cysts are the most common symptom of polycystic fibrosis.
    • Infertility may be a symptom of polycystic fibrosis.
      By: Monkey Business
      Infertility may be a symptom of polycystic fibrosis.
    • Polycystic fibrosis symptoms may include an increase in blood pressure levels.
      By: Monika Wisniewska
      Polycystic fibrosis symptoms may include an increase in blood pressure levels.
    • One symptom of polycystic fibrosis may be pain and discomfort.
      By: staras
      One symptom of polycystic fibrosis may be pain and discomfort.
    • A woman with polycystic fibrosis may have fewer menstrual periods than normal.
      By: lukasmajercik
      A woman with polycystic fibrosis may have fewer menstrual periods than normal.