Suspected Endometriosis

[Rharvey]

Hi all, I'm new to this but was wondering if anyone can offer any advice. I've been going back and forth to the doctors for about 19 months now - due to suffering with heavy painful periods.

I had a transvaginal scan back in November and found out I have a small, but pesky, fibroid. 

I'm currently not on any contraception (I haven't been for 2 and a half years now) and I had my first referral to a gynaecologist a few weeks ago. 

My periods are excruciating - they consist of sharp pains in my abdomen, heavy blood flow and excruciating pain in my right hip; the only way I can describe this pain is like someone shoving a screwdriver in my bone.

I explained this pain to my GP and he reckons it can be referred pain and that my right ovary feel very tender. 

I am currently on my period and have noticed that I have had pain where my right kidney is located. It feels similar to when I've had a kidney infection. 

I am booked in for a consultation this Thursday and have opted to have a hysteroscopy and laparoscopy under general anaesthetic. They suspect I may have endometriosis, however can it spread to other parts of the body? Anyone had similar symptoms? Any comments would be appreciated.

thanks in advance ladies xx

[applebird]

Hi, yes Endo can spread to other parts of the body - exists in the peritoneal cavity affecting the reproductive organs, bowel and bladder most commonly. Essentially the endometrial cells can set up home anywhere they get a chance if not regulated by the immune system; some people even have Endo in their lungs though this is very rare. I would recommend reading up as much as you can. 

If you have excision surgery at a bsge endometriosis centre with a specialist you stand the best chance of having a successful surgical outcome. After this I would go on either the pill or a course of hormone injections (your consultant will guide you as to what's most appropriate for the stage of Endo you have) to prevent recurrence of the disease. Xx