First consultation to investigate Endo

[Ak96]

My GP really thinks that I am suffering from symptoms of Endometriosis but all of the tests she has done have come back clear.

She referred me to a gynaecologists.

I had my first appointment with him just last week...

I was unsure of what to expect, but I was fully prepared with a pain diary and some background knowledge of what could happen.

I went in to see him where he looked at previous results on his computer. Then he said to me theres only 2 options. You can either try the contraceptive pill to suppress symptoms or we can do a laparoscopy to investigate and try to deal with it.

I agreed to the laparoscopy and he then asked if I had any questions but I had a brain block and couldn't think of any. Then then the gynaecologist said 'ok then if you have any questions save them up for me and I will see you on the day'

I have no clue what to expect he didnt explain the procedure. I mean I know I will receive an appointment in the post but do I need a pre op? No body mentioned that.

I feel like my appointment lasted 5 minutes and he wanted me in and out - there was no real conversation and he wasn't interested in my pain diary.

Maybe I'm just panicing, but if anybody has any tips or guidance for what to expect it would be much appreciated

Thank you in advance x

[Christin_a]

Hey first take a breath.

The fact they are happy to do a lap is half the battle, it's the only way to really diagnose if you have endo. You will get an appointment for a preop they mine was just a big questionnaire, blood pressure etc.

Does your gynecologist have a specialist interest in endometriosis? This is a requirement in the UK, but still does happen that you get seen my a general gynea.

A lap is key hole surgery to take a look and remove it if they find it, usually 3 little incisions think like 1cm or less each so really small they use instruments and cameras to have a look inside.

Let me know if you have any other questions. I'll try and help

Christina

[Ak96 in reply to Christin_a]

Thank you so much, I'm going to do some research and see what I can find. I did full out a big questionnaire at the time

Thank you for your guidance ❤ x

[Moonglo]

It might be worth searching for similar discussions in this group, which talk about what to expect after the op and how to look after yourself. You will get probably have a swollen belly, and most people are signed off for a couple of weeks to recover. I had to have 3 weeks then went back part time for a further 3 weeks. You’ll also need to look out for infections, which is pretty common after operations.

[Ak96 in reply to Moonglo]

Thank you so much, I'm going to do some research ❤ x

[EUKSupportTeam Partner Endometriosis UK]

Hello Ak96.

I'm sorry to see that you are worrying about your laparoscopy. You might find this publication on our website helpful endometriosis-uk.org/sites/....

Best wishes

Lynne - Endometriosis UK

[Ak96 in reply to EUKSupportTeam]

Thank you so much, I'm going to do some research ❤ x