Contraceptive Pill ( mini pill) or surgery.

[Cockapoo-2016]

Hi ladies,

In November 2021, I had a laparscorpy surgery removal of left ovary cyst. Two weeks after surgery I had a MRI scan.

On Monday 28th February 2022, I had a consultation appointment call from a gynecologist consultant. Firstly she called me an hour late, findings from the laparscorpy surgery is that I have been diagnosed with endometriosis, findings from the MRI scan I have bowel adherent with evidence of rectovaginal disease. The gynecologist asked one question how was my periods and pain, I told her the pain is mild when I get my periods and when ovulate, on my left side where I had endo cyst removed, that's bc of the cyst on bowels to the left. The call was rushed all she did was give me three options

1. Leave the endometriosis cyst and see what happens have another MRI scan in May.

2. Contraceptive pill on trial to see if the pill keeps the endo under control,for two months and MRI SCAN in May the review.

3. Referral to endometriosis specialist for surgery.

I have opt for contraceptive pill, I know if I have made the right choice or I should have go for surgery. I felt the gynecologist didn't care, no guidance or help to give me understanding about the side effects of the mini pill, what surgery involves, how to manage the condition, suggesting website to give me more information about the pill, bowel sugery etc. She couldn't even been bothered to tell me if I have stage 3 endo or stage 4 endo.

What I would like to ask the side effects of the pill and does the pill help to control endometriosis? What are the cons and pros of bowel surgery if anyone had surgery? Does endometriosis return even after surgery? I am confused, stressed, crying all the time not knowing what is happening to me, if I have made the right choice. I am so sorry for going on, it's just I am all new to all of this. I've GP appointment 25th of March.

Any advice would be so grateful.

[R_elep]

Hi. I’m sorry that your appointment with the gynaecologist was so rushed - it’s so annoying when that happens but maybe just try making a list of any questions you have to see if your GP can help.

I have stage 4 endometriosis affecting my bowels and rectovaginal area. I’ve opted for surgery (having it next month). I know it can all return, but I just felt more comfortable choosing to have the surgery rather than not and then regretting it if things get worse down the line. For me, surgery was pretty much completely needed anyway (I was strongly advised not to leave it). Maybe you could ask your gp what the risks / benefits of surgery vs the pill are and that might help with making a decision and giving you some clarity.

All the best and keep speaking up with the doctors / gynaecologist - it’s so important to be heard and someone will listen to you! X

[Cockapoo-2016 in reply to R_elep]

Thank you so much, for taking the time to answer my question. I feel abit at ease. All the best with your surgery.🦋💙

[EndoRabbit08]

Hello there.

I've gone for the mini pill.

Surgery, although sometimes needed, is a temporary fix. You'll find yourself needing further surgeries down the line and the risks go up with each one.

You don't just have the risks of the surgery itself but the anaesthesia carries it's own awful risks. Not to mention all the other risks that surgery carries, no matter how small. Surgery risks spreading the cells even further if not done properly by an endometriosis specialist. Endo can and does grow back in most cases. Sometimes worse than before. You create more adhesions, more scar tissue each time, things that can be unstuck, will stick again. That's just how the body heals.

I've been told all this by no less than 6 consultants, 4 being private consultations. You can't fix something by surgery that was caused by surgery.

So I've decided to go down the diet and supplement route plus taking the mini pill to help with heavy bleeding.

This is my opinion. I speak for myself based on my own experience with this relentless condition. Although not ideal, it is what it is. I've been told that Endo has no cure. Treatment is just management of symptoms. And I personally feel that it didn't warrant or justify I taking all these surgical risks. If cure is not permanent. For me, the benefits don't outweigh the risks here. Iykwim.

Wishing you all the best in your journey. I'm here to chat if you ever need to.

I'm sorry I couldn't give you a more positive answer.

Xx

[Cockapoo-2016 in reply to EndoRabbit08]

Thank you so much for sharing your experienceand for taking the time to answer my question. My I ask if you don't mind; what supplements you are taking and the kind of diet you are on?

Thanks 😊.

Xxx.

[Cockapoo-2016]

😊🌹