QuestionI am a 33-year-old mom of three and I have had endometriosis since I was 16 years old. Certainly, my pregnancies have helped out, but have not been curative. I have done hormone therapy and laparascopy, all with the same result: No long-term relief.
I really do not want to try Lupron (or any of its counterparts) and am done having children. My doctor is very hesitant to do a hysterectomy, but I am about at my wit's end with this whole process. I'm tired of feeling like this. I know that there is no cure for Endo -- including a hysterectomy -- but at least this would stop the process.
Can you give me any advice for speaking with my OB/GYN about this matter? Thank you for anything you can provide.
AnswerDear Erin
I can so empathize with how you feel. I am 52 and still experiencing the wrath of this condition. It seems to be a never ending process of feeling poorly, fatigued, bloated, nausea...on and on...I swear, I have never have a normal month of ever feeling well.
I too, agree that Lupron would be a poor choice. I have never opted to take Lupron, I have heard and read very poor comments on this med.
The only good thing out of this whole endo thing, thankfully...has been my gyno of 19 years. He is a high risk/fertility doctor that specializes in endo. I have been under close watch with him over the years and several surgeries later.
I have also done research on line regarding endo...not much out there as far as new treatments. But any new treatments, again, require woman to experience far too many side effects.
I also thought about a hysterectomy but decided to take the natural way out-may not have been such a good idea, still have horrible symptoms. I am also receiving numerous comments from endo women who have had endo, had hysterectomies and are still experiencing symptoms. That is one piece of research I did find...that endo remains even after hysterectomies, it can even invade parts of your lungs and other body tissue.
I tell you, its a real curse.
I will give some great advice that I have use from time to time-contacting: endometriosisfoundation.org has helped me over the last couple of years. Keep an eye on this website, if there is a new clinical out there...they will have it.
I feel for you (and all of us), I truly hope you find some type of relief and peace.
Martha
