Understanding Your Surgery: What to Expect After an Endometriosis Diagnosis

Question
Hi Martha,

First let me say thanks because if it wasn't for these boards I would not have been able to challenge my doctors into a defintiive diagnosis.  I was diagnosed with mild endo during a lap back in Jan.  At the time it was only discovered a small segment of endo but a nodule of endo was also found in my rectal wall (rectosigmoid).  I believe it is identified as attached to the left uterosacral ligament.  This changed my points to a more severe case.  The RE could not determine whether this was the cause of my infertility but after 2 years of trying I am almost convinced this is my culprit.

I finally found a bowel surgeon and another RE who will perform the excision and clean me out.  I am wondering what to expect after surgery.  My second question is what is recommended for fertility treatment after performing such?  Should I try to push for IVF becuase I have endo or should I do the progressive fertility treatment with risks it may return?  What about Depot-Lupron....is that better for me.

Thanks in advance
Angie

Answer
Hi Angie
    Firstly, I know that nodules are directly associated with endo...yes, endo can make it hard for a woman to become pregnant, because endo and its repercussions, like nodules, cysts and fibroids block and congest a woman's normal flow of things with scar tissue and growths. By cleaning out...? Did you have a D&C type surgery? Because this type of cleaning out will help increase your chances of becoming pregnant...it basically makes you like everyone else, normal! Endo clogs things up so to speak.
    I would also suggest seeking out a specialist, my doctor is a "high risk/fertility" doctor and these are the guys that know endo inside and out...and the fertility issue associated with endo. I'd start with one of these doctors first.
    The Lupron thing isn't one of my favorites. I was in an Endo group for many years, and all I heard were bad things about Lupron, the way it made you feel, etc. Besides that, Lupron will put in you a menopausal state where you'll probably feel wonderful-free of cramping, but you won't be able to conceive for about 9 months or so. It sort of freezes the growth of endo which is good for alot of sufferers. But if you are trying to conceive, then you will have to wait even longer.
    I don't know if I've helped you or even given you any good advice...but I do wish you the best of luck. Take care of yourself!
Martha