Got my first appointment tomorrow with an endo specialist

[gemmap]

I've been ill for 7 years been passed from pillar to post finally convinced a doctor to send me to a endo specialist for diagnosis but nervous what should I expect my gp and I think endo and symptoms are same as endo and adeo ?

[Evezy]

I would take a list of all your symtons, preferably as and when they occur. Give him as much info you possibly can. Whether you think they are relevant or not.

[sara75]

Hi gemmap - Isn't Adenomyosis found inside the womb, whereas endometriosis is found outside the womb, somewhere in the pelvic cavilty. That's my understanding anyway.

I've just seen your post and I know it's late and you are going tomorrow but I hope you see my post before you go...

When I saw a specialist, beforehand I made a list of my symptoms - tell them when your symptoms began, how bad they may be, any impact on your life, if they are getting worse. We are always being told to report any unusual changes for example in bowel habits etc so with that in mind tell them anything that has changed and is unusual for you, like heavier period than normal, spotting before a period when you didn't used to, more blood clots which you've never usually had before etc.

List any treatments you've had like the Pill, contraceptive injections etc, and dates. Also any painkillers you may take for it.

When I went, I gave all the above info to a lady who wrote it all down, then with me she suspected endo so she went off to speak to someone higher than her who agreed to send me for Lap. Didn't need physical exam but don't know if other women have had this. It's all one step closer to getting anything resolved - I know it's easy my saying it but try not to be nervous. Let me know how you get on? Hope I've helped a little.

Sara xx

[gemmap in reply to sara75]

thank you for your responce due to a negative lap 4 years ago my doctor had written me off told me it was all in my head. early last year i had copper coil and had lots of problems this is the first time iv been off the pill since the age of 15 and all my symptoms were magnified i was in horrendus pain. Doctor has said she feels it is endo and iv back to backed my pills which did make it better as in it took the edge off the pain and it was not as harsh but i have definatly been worse than ever before so iv pushed to go and see this specialist hoping if it is there he willl see it or advise me. Somebody on here pointed out that my symptoms are very similar to Adenomyosis anf this may explain my negative lap. However from researching this it does sound like majority of the time (not always) the two can go hand in hand.....

Thank you so much for your reply i made a,list last night but im goping to add a few more bits like you suggested im seeing him this afternoon so fingers crossed he can offer some practical advise not its just in my head. Also thanks EVEZY X

[sara75 in reply to gemmap]

Hiya again gemmap - no problem. Hope everything goes well today - you'll have to keep us updated.x

Sara xx

[stevieflp]

Hi Gemmap.

That is great news that you are seeing an endo consultant specialist rather than a general gynae.

I hope your appointment has gone well.

I can recommend the following books:

Stop Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain by Dr Andrew S Cook (top USA Endo Surgeon Consultant)

100 Questions and Answers about Endometriosis by by Dr David Redwine (retired top US Endo Surgeon Consultant (acknowledged as world leader in the field)

All very best wishes to you . xx

[gemmap]

Got on really well today with endo specialist he is arranging an MRI scan for the adano and laporoscopy for endo just need to wait for appointments thanks for your advise. Has anybody found having endo removed can make symptoms worse?? Thanks stivieflp for the advice on books I'm goon to look these up x