QuestionHi,
I'm 47 years old and was diagnosed with endometriosis at about 26 years of age. I have had multiple laparoscopies and laparotomies with excision of the endo. My last surgery was 2004 and the doctor at that time wanted to do a total hysterectomy and I refused. I have done a lot of reading and am aware that even a total hysterectomy is not a 100% guarantee that the endo will not come back. Also, I'm not willing to accept that at this time. Not that I at my age would be thinking about having children but I don't want to go into menopause early. I would like to go into menopause naturally. I have been on Lupron several times. The last time I was put on lupron it was not only for endometriosis but also for abnormal bleeding and spotting. I was on it for 1 year with maybe a 2-3 month break and tolerated it very well with minimal side effects and with no problems with my bone density. Since restarting my periods in June of this year the abnormal bleeding and spotting has returned. I have had an endometrial biopsy which was normal. I had an endometrial ablation 10/2006 and have now had 2 periods since the ablation with no change. My doctor is now offering me to try progesterone but after informing her of my twin sister's breast cancer that was estrogen receptive positive this and any other birth control pills are out of the question. My doctor is now offering me to go back on lupron. All the years I have had endometriosis the problems I have incurred are heavy and painful periods, endometrial cyst, and pain related to the endometriosis. (which is quite enough to bare)Otherwise, my periods have always come like clock work. My periods have never lasted longer than 7 days. Now it is lasting 10 days followed by heavy spotting which last up to 4-5 days prior to my next period. My question is: Are there any long term side effects of lupron other than increased risk for osteoporosis? Are there other problems that my doctor could be missing? Any information would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Maxine
AnswerDear Maxine,
Your history so very closley mimicks my own at this time. I too was diagnosed in my 20's, and have had major and minor surgeries along the way. I am now 50 and I am experiencing the same symptoms of spotting, bleeding and heavy bleeding between periods. I had Danocrine through the years with great success but never Lupron. I was a member of an Endo group for several years and used to discuss Lupron...It was of the groups opinion, that it was not a good alternative. The women did not like it.
I was also offered a hyterectomy several years ago but also decided against it, to try and ride it out til the end. I believe my present symptoms are related to early menopause. My doctor also agrees with this. I have been bleeding most of this past month, heavy and spotting.
You might want to discuss the Lupron with your Doctor...I am on no drugs at this time except Anaprox, to control the cramps, in between the heavy bleeding. Lupron does have side effects but the actual use of the drug may outweigh them.
You may also want to email the Endo Research Center and ask them...they really offer alot of help with concerns of endo and alternatives.
I don't know if I've even come close to helping you but I know I am right behind you with the symptoms! Take care of yourself and good luck!
Martha
