Drained

[DancingPanda]

Hi everyone!

I’m awaiting an official diagnosis via laparoscopy, however after years of painful periods, painful ovulation and now being unable to conceive for over a year I was referred for an ultrasound and was told I have 2 Endometriomas on my left ovary.

I’ve been off the contraceptive patch for 2 and a half years, and every month the pain around my period is gradually getting worse. I feel completely drained with it, it’s so debilitating now that I’m losing full nights sleep, mefenamic acid tablets don’t even make a dent in the pain and I feel exhausted for days after. I use a hot water bottle but even that is just a distraction. I feel I’ve hit breaking point these last few days.

Has anyone got any tips on anything they find that helps with pain? Thanks for any tips!

[Moon_maiden]

When I saw pain nurse she suggested Tramadol, consultant suggested Amitriptyline for nerve pain and to continue with Tramadol or Oramorph if needed. It sort of helps at times. Wheat bags really help.

I’ve also used cold spray and magnesium spray, this seemed to help but makes skin itchy.

Have another chat with GP., hope you get sorted soon.

[DancingPanda in reply to Moon_maiden]

Thank you, I’ll have a look at wheat bags and magnesium spray, I haven’t heard of them before! I’m really wary of starting to take strong painkillers but I will definitely speak to my GP again and ask for advice. Thanks for your reply!

[Alex9]

Hi ,I find mefanamic acid only works if I start taking it a day or 2 before my period starts and i have to take it regularly without missing a dose. If I take cocodamol too then I can sometimes get through the night ! This is what the doctor prescribed during my last flare up.

I have also found taking magnesium and oil of evening primrose supplements help reduce my endo symptoms, and cutting out trigger foods . ( for me that's wheat, alcohol and caffeine) sounds like a boring life I know!

It sucks , hope you feel better soon

[DancingPanda in reply to Alex9]

I read that mefenamic acid can interfere with ovulation if taken regularly so I’m a bit wary of it when trying to conceive.

I’ll have a try of primrose oil and magnesium supplements so thanks for the tip! I also didn’t realise diet can have an impact, that’s really interesting to know!

Thanks for replying!

[Lindle]

If the ultrasound reports that you have endometriomas then you have endo. This is ovarian endo and will most often indicate that you have deep endo elsewhere that most often affects the left side. Typical symptoms might be lower back pain, referred pain down the buttock, thigh or leg and pain with sex.

You must only be referred to a gynaecologist with some specialist training in diagnosing endo - you need a thorough pelvic exam including an internal to feel for deep nodules between the cervix and rectum that can often be felt on the uterosacral ligaments. If deep endo is suspected you would need referring to a specialist endo centre - referral criteria vary depending on whether you are in England or the devolved boards. Admin will be able to give you info on the various pathways otherwise feel free to ask if you need more help. x

[DancingPanda in reply to Lindle]

Oh wow, this information is really helpful, thanks so much. I’ll keep in mind your offer for more help. Thanks again! x

[KatyLB]

Hiya, I am sorry to hear you are having an awful time.

I swear by my tens machine for pain management. I am still working and my job requires me to be mentally alert (as best as I can) so strong painkillers are off the cards for me.

I find the tens really helps, I have to wear it all day which isn't the most practical but I am at the point where I would try anything to manage the pain.

It wouldn't help during the night, but may give you some relief during the day and the effect does last a little while after you remove it x

[DancingPanda in reply to KatyLB]

Thanks for the recommendation, I’ve been looking into this as I hadn’t heard of it before, so will give it a go! Sorry to hear you’re in so much pain as well x