First Gynae Appointment - treatment options

[Sophhh]

I had my first Gynae appointment this week- he confirmed the suspicions that what I was experiencing is likely endometriosis

He said I would need an MRI and examination

… But following that he basically put the treatment options on the table and asked what I would prefer- hormones (artificial menopause) or surgery (lap).

Although I am pleased to be heard, and given the option to choose - I now feel a little overwhelmed by the decision and don’t feel fully informed about the pros and cons

For those who have tried both - what can you advise and which helped more?

And what are the main pros and cons of each??

I am a little put off by hormones but trying to stay open minded

X thank you so much ☺️

[Lofty1589]

Artificial menopause can be very rough - at least it was for me and I personally don’t recommend it. I think lap would be the best course of action, particularly if Endo is present so it can be removed. In my mind, the best way of doing things is removing any Endo and then trialling hormones to help manage it. Otherwise hormones are more likely to mask your Endo and it can progress until it’s severe which can cause more complications

[Sophhh in reply to Lofty1589]

Thanks so much yes these were my feelings x

[Louisewhite84]

After lots of different hormonal treatments I was offered artificial menopause using injections and HRT. The first week of taking HRT was rough but after this I felt like a different person and the best I have in years. I had no pain, no periods and no side effects from HRT.

The downside was I was only allowed to stay on it for 6 months. Within 3 days of stopping it my pain came back. You need to find out how long you can be in the treatment as it may not be a fix for long and the laparoscopy will give you more answers and treatment options.

Good luck x

[Sophhh in reply to Louisewhite84]

Thank you really help ful x