What Happens Pre-Lap Consultation?

[E-JSmith]

Hi all,

I'm scheduled in for an appointment with a endo. gynaecologist in January. What should I expect for the physical examination part? They told me they were going to manually feel if I have endo. The endo. nurse at my prior consultation say they use a speculum. I've already had a trans-vaginal and pelvic ultrasound without seeing any cysts but the ultrasound technician said that doesn't necessarily mean I don't have something (endo or otherwise related stuff) present.

Would someone be able to fill me in a little more on what can happen at the consultation with gynaecologist?

Thanks so much in advance!

[GrittyReads]

I'm not an expert, but based on past experience - and especially if your gynae is skilled in Endo and laps - it will be as important for them to listen to all your details of pains and symptoms, monthly cycles and responses to past treatments.

Also, the ultrasound technician is right, a general ultrasound rarely shows anything of Endo. Meanwhile, a trans-vaginal one can show Endo in certain places, eg actually on the ovaries, but it won't see an awful lot in other places. This is especially if your endo is in hidden areas, or the type that is thinly scattered growths.

NB Endo is weird, at my first lap (admittedly back in the mid-90s, when endo knowledge was stone-age!) I was told they didn't understand why I had so much pain for the tiny amount of endo I had. Yet about 9 years ago (pre- my mirena coil, and menopause - I'm now Endo-free?!?!) I was told he didn't understand how I was in so little pain, given the amount of Endo I had.

There are all sorts of signs they can read, though, if they really know what they are doing. Eg I have a tilted cervix, and that can be caused by endo on the ligaments that support the uterus. Also, they may be able to feel organs that don't move as they should, whereas the endo tissue causing that, won't show up on the ultrasound.

As I said I'm not an expert, and it may help to talk to the advisors at 'Endo UK' - link above, but I hope this helps. The physical is well worth it, and gives you a chance to ask questions and have things explained to you more.

Take care, Gritty.

[E-JSmith in reply to GrittyReads]

Dear Gritty,

Thanks so much for all this information and sharing your experiences with me!

I definitely feel a little more at ease and prepared. I'm glad to know you're no longer suffering, praise God for that!

Yes, I may contact Endo UK just to discuss any further queries or concerns I may have prior to my next consultation.

Many thanks again!

E-J