tell me about endometriosis

[doulawoman]

While having an unplanned c-section two weeks ago the doctor informed me I have endometriosis and removed scar tissue and a cyst. He said there is more scar tissue and would like to do laproscopic surgery at a later date to remove it. I find myself feelign totally overwhelmed to have this diagnosis on top of so many other complications with baby and I leading up to and continuing after the c-section. It as a bit of a relief as well as I have had excruicatingly painful periods for years and no doctor ever took me seriously so as a consequence I was taking almost double to pain meds I should and missing work or school every month.

Please tell me your stories abot endometriosis...what helped, what didn't, good sources of information... anyone else get surgery, did it help?

Weirdly, we were able to conceive our daughter on the first "try"

[brinalicious]

I was diagnosed with endometriosis when I was pretty young because of very painful periods. When I was 18 I had laproscopic surgery to remove it, and did just fine (that was almost 12 years ago). I conceived my first child just a year later, or so. I have since had 2 more children without any trouble getting pregnant.

After having surgery, my periods were much less painful, but it almost seemed like after my first son was born (also by cesarean) my cramps went totally away. I am glad I had the surgery. My cramps were debilitating before, but I hardly even take ibuprofen anymore (although I still haven't gotten my period back after having my daughter 5 months ago). I hope this helps!

[MAMom]

So sorry...it sounds like you had a rough birth, doulawoman. Sending your way.

Did the doctor remove the the scar tissue & cyst with or without your consent? Hopefully with, but the way you wrote it sounds like he may have just done it without asking?

I know a couple of people who have had excellent results from acupuncture for endo. Personally, I would try that, dietary changes, seeing a naturopath, or other non-surgical possibilities before resorting to more surgery. However, I'd definitely get a 2nd opinion before having any surgery.

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Mama to DS (6) & DD (4) : :

[SandyMom]

My SIL had really good results with Vitex and Dong Quai.
But I'm not sure if they're safe for use during breastfeeding.
Here's some info on natural treatments for endometriosis.
Good luck, Mama!

[4myfinn]

I have been complaining about my terrible periods since I was 18. No doctors took me seriously. Fast-forward ten years. After TTC for two straight years with no luck, my doc finally said that he thought I might have endo and scheduled me for surgery. When he got in there, it was a mess. He said I've had it probably since high school. I was only able to get pregnant with IVF.

I've done everything: acupuncture (many years), dong quai, evening primrose oil, wheat-free diet. Needles and wf diet helped, but, honestly, nothing compares to the results you get from a laparoscopy. It is so worth it.

Great book: http://www.amazon.com/Endometriosis-...7585955&sr=8-1

Sorry- nursing and typing w/ 1 hand!