Understanding Endometriosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Laparoscopy

Question
Hi Martha,

I am 24 years old and have been in tremendous pain for about 10 years. I went to many doctors and finally had one tell me that he thought I had Endometriosis the other day. I am scheduled for an exploratory Laparoscopy in 3 days and he stated that he will do laser ablation if he finds Endometriosis. After I got home I looked all over the internet to learn about this disease. This really sounds like me.

Anyhow, I am married and we are currently buying a new house. We are living with my husband's parents while we settle. I would have cramps so bad I would sit on the floor with my legs drawn up to my chest and bawl. I wouldn't even be able to stand up.

So when I returned from the doctor today my Mother-In-Law said to me "oh, so there really is something wrong with you."

This really hurt my feelings when I know how bad this pain really is. When I lay or sit and cry for hours and days at a time how can some one really think it is all in my head?

Please give me some advice on what I should do. I can't just ignore or her move on with my life since my husband is a Mama's Boy and we currently live with her. I don't think I will ever be able to see her in a better life.

Please help.

Thanks

Karen

Answer
Hi Karen,
    Boy I feel for you. I wish I had a nickel for every person that said to me, oh just take an aspirin or yes, it is in your head. Tell your mother in law that she is very fortunate that she has never experienced this real and very painful disease. You can have her contact the website of Endometriosis Research Center, so she can view for herself, that this disease is extremely painful and very divserse in its symptoms
     I too had a very extreme case, I would rock and cry for hours as well, accompanied by labor like contractions that lasted for up to 8 hours and sometimes for 3 days. Along with this pain, I would normally vomit for up to 8 hours the very first day of my period...Still in my head, huh??? Ended up reputuring my stomach 3 times.
    Too bad people really don't see the intensity of Endo...but the bottom line is, you need to take care of yourself, no matter what anyone else thinks. Because endo is real and is treatable. I am glad you have found a Dr. that will be doing a Lap to see how extensive your endo is. At that point, he/she can begin to find you some relief.
    I totally empathize with you and wish you the best in your new home. It does sound like endo...take care of yourself!!! Don't listen to anyone but yourself!
Martha