QuestionFrom one Angie to another,
I am 25 years old and 10 months ago I stopped birth control in an effort to conceive. I have not gotten pregnant yet, however, after exiting birth control I am noticing challenges that began occurring a month ago during my menstrual cycles. I was on the pill for 7 years. Two months ago (7mths after stopping birth control) I began to have severe constipation and challenging bowel movements on the first and second days of my cycle. I was told in college while on birth control that my uterus was retroverted but that it was completely normal. This was also confirmed by my doctor who told me the retroversion is what has been causing the discomfort. I am suspect to these diagnosis as I have read that endo can cause these symptoms that were perhaps suppressed while I was on the pill. The fact that I am not pregnant yet also gives me suspicion. I did have major cramps before starting birth control. I have read that birth control slows the spread of endo so what is the likelihood that I have it since I was on them for so long? HELP!
AnswerHi Angie,
If you had severe cramping before taking the pill along with your other symptoms I would say there is a chance that your trouble could be Endo related.
For some reason it seems as soon as some one tells a doctor they are having problems with bowel movements ect. they are very quick to tell you that your problem may be bowel related. IBS. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I know of three women who were initially diagnosed with IBS who later got an Endo diagnosis.
I too have a retroverted uterus. This has NEVER caused me any problems. I am not sure what the likelihood of this causing your bowel troubles. I would say not too great.
With all the symptoms you have plus having trouble concieving I would find a doctor who is willing to do a Lap to find out if Endo is the cause.
Before sceduling an appointment do a lot of research on IBS and retroverted uterus that way when the doctor tells you either of these you know if it is a possiblity. The worst thing you can do is get a diagnosis of something then do research and find out there is no way it can be whatever the doctor told you it was. Do the research first. Go into the appointment armed with information.
A great site to visit for Endo is www.endo-resolved.com. This site gives a huge overview of the disease.
Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Sincerely,
Angie
PS. My given name is actually Angie....not too many of those.
