Endo, I dont know?

[RNSB]

So this is my first post as this past Wednesday my doctor is referring me to a gynecologist as she suspects I may have endometriosis. My symptoms are pain during sex, specifically when Im on top, and only what I can describe as painful labour contractions during my period. This mostly happens first thing in the morning and I'm only relieved of the pain by going to the toilet which obviously hurts like hell as I'm adding more pressure but I'm almost instantly relieved. Sometimes I feel the same pain when I'm not in my period but its more consistent with my period. During my consultation with my GP I learnt that I have a retroverted uterus which explains why the pain radiates around my rectum and pelvis. Having read so many stories on here I feel my symptoms are no where near as bad which makes me doubt whether I have endo or not. Its only been the last 7 months that I have noticed these pains are more regular as I had previously been on the implant contraceptive which I believe is actually one of the treatments used and I would only get the pain once every 2/3 months. Unfortunately I have to still wait to get referred to the gynecologist and then it will be at least 6 months wait to get a laparoscopy on the NHS. So I was just wondering if anyone can relate to these symptoms and whether or not they went private to get diagnose? I learnt this week that my aunt had endo which is why she cant have kids. She had a hysterectomy and had her ovaries removed so there's potential for it to run in the family. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.

On a side note, thank you all for sharing your stories and suggestions as I have honestly learnt so much about this disease. I cant believe I never knew about it before especially with women getting diagnosed with it more commonly now. Even if it turns out my symptoms relates to something completely different I will be supporting you all in hope that a cure is found!

xxx

[kitscat]

Hi there. I’m sorry about your symptoms. I had exactly the same and I’ve just had a laparoscopy to diagnose and treat endometriosis. My uterus was retroverted and smears used to be so painful.

I had my surgery privately but this was because we are very keen to conceive.

It may be worth pricing it up in your area and seeing what you think. I suppose it all depends on how bad your symptoms are. If you are not trying to conceive there are lots of medication options which your GP can advise you on, whilst you wait.

Best of luck and take care xx

[RNSB in reply to kitscat]

Thanks Kitscat for your reply. Have got an appointment for the new year so fingers cross. Wish you luck on your journey with endo. X

[Krithika]

Hi, I wanna say to have hope and don’t dismiss possible endo because your situation doesn’t sound as bad as another’s. Every endo woman has her own specific symptoms and level of severity, which doesn’t even relate to the level of pain. I would highly consider going to a laparoscopic excision surgeon. That would make ALL the difference in diagnosis and treatment, as most doctors preform ablation/coagulation which most often makes matters worse.

Not all women with endo need a hysterectomy, most don’t. Endo can grow in so many places including the bladder, bowels, ovaries, etc. so a hysterectomy isn’t the solution to every woman.

You sound very sweet. I hope you get to the bottom of this and feel better soon <3 were always here for you!

[RNSB in reply to Krithika]

Thanks so much for your reply. Think I will go ahead with the laparoscopy. I've got an appointment on 2nd Jan. Great way to start the year xx