QuestionMy first question is what's the difference between dysmenorrheal and endometriosis? Also, I have been told by so many that periods are and aren't supposed to be painful, which is true? I have had cramps ever since I first got my period, which are never normal by the way. I am AD Military, so I exercise regularly and have an alright diet. I have a family history of ovarian, cervical, and breast cancer. How at risk am I? My last few paps have been normal. I was once diagnosed with displaysia but was later told it cleared itself up. I have been married for two years and have not gotten pregnant, not due to lack of trying. The last time I was on birth control was early 2004. Based off of this, do you think something is wrong with me? Its scary to have all that history of cancer but no answers as to why my body is acting this way. Please help.
Thank you in advance,
A1C BillieMarie Simon
AnswerHi BillieMarie,
Sorry it took so long to answer. I usually try to get out same day responses but with the holidays that just was not possible.
Periods are not supposed to be painful. If you have cramps with your period it should just be a "nagging" feeling. Anytime you have cramps that limits your physical activity or stops you from going about your day to day activities...it's a problem.
I am not too sure about the cancer part, I do know that women with Endo are at a higher risk of devloping cancer. I'm not sure if it goes the other way too.
If you have Endo, a pap can not diagnose that. If you have painful periods, you need to have a Lap done. A lap is outpatient surgery. Nothing big and nothing to worry about.
Many women wait an astounding 10 years for an Endo diagnosis. Many only find out they have Endo when trying to get pregnant to no avail. Infertility is a BIG issue with women who suffer from Endo. They longer you wait and the more the disease progresses, the higher the infertility rate.
It does sound like you could have Endo...you need to have yourself checked out. Tell your doctor what you think your problem may be and discuss having the Lap done. That is the ONLY way to diagnose Endo. If your doctor tries to convince you otherwise, do yourdelf a favor and find another doctor.
Hope this helped and if you have any other questions, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Angie
www.endo-resolved.com has a lot of useful info. Check it out when you have time and thanks for all you and the rest of our service is doing for us!!
