QuestionHi, i've just been diagnosed with Endo, and as you can imagine i'm at my wits end. I probably have had it for a few years now without realising it. but now its got to the stage i'm in chronic pain and my period is heavy and lasts more than 12days. i've been prescribed provera and was absolutely shocked by the side effects. You see, ive just recently got myself down to the required weight that i should be and the thought of gaining it all again fears with me dread. i know its superfical but i'm a woman and i feel its unfair that this little tablet to cure one thing should cause so many other ailments. the depression side frightens me as well, my job involves me to be on the ball all the time and i can't really afford any distractions. i was given provera about three weeks ago and after much consideration i have started it this week. already, i can see my stomach filling out and i seem to be always hungry. can you offer any advice on this or is there a less intrusive herbal alterternative?
thanks
Jenny
AnswerHi Jenny
First of all, i'm sorry to hear that you've just been diagnosed with endo. It obviously has been somewhat of a shock to you, and is something that you'll have to get used to with time.
As for endo treatment, not being a doctor I can't really reccommend something, but if you're not happy with provera, then it might be worth going back to your gynae and having a chat with him or her.
I put on loads of weight with provera, because it increases your appetite. However, as soon as I came off it, the weight did drop off as well.
There are other options, such as reflexology, homeopathy, acupuncture etc. etc. It really all depends on your symptoms, how bad your pain is, when you get it, etc. etc.
Do you have pain all the month, or do you only have pain with your period?
You could try something like the contraceptive pill - and take that continuously. Apparently taking it all of the time, is the same as having a drug such as zoladex, and taking HRT with it.
There are so many different options out there - it's really hard to be able to tell you which route to take. If you are looking for something less intrusive and natural, then it might also be worth contacting a nutritionist. There is a book about endometriosis and diet, but it's very rigid. Rather than reading it and sticking to it rigidly, I would suggest going to see a nutritionist first.
Are you in the UK or in the US? Let me know if there is anything else that I can do to help? My e-mail is aboyton99@bigfoot.com
I hope this has helped a little bit? It's always so hard to know what to do when you've just been diagnosed with endo. If I knew a bit more about your symptoms etc. etc. then I might be able to point you in the right direction for more help.
Keep me posted won't you?
Take care
All the best
Antonia
http://www.antonia-boyton.net
