first time endometriosis removed

[P1nk87]

hiya, I had endometriosis removed 11 days ago, today I have started my period which is very painful and heavy. I’ve read this is normal but how long does it last for? Any tips on how to deal with the pain? It’s worse than before my surgery

[parleystopaz0e]

Hi P1nk87,

Sorry to hear you’re in pain! It is unfortunately common to experience painful and heavy periods after a laparoscopy. Mine were too maybe 2-3 months after surgery with the first one being the most painful, then the latter ones were better. But I was also prescribed hormones which have made my periods lighter so that probably helped.

You’re still in recovery though, you’ve had your surgery very recently so pain and discomfort are to be expected. As long as they’re getting better with time. That’s what I was advised by one of the clinical nurses. I had various types of pain coming and going during recovery which freaked me out but if it’s getting better then that’s good. So just keep an eye on it because if it’s not then my advice would be to raise this with your surgeon.

In terms of painkillers, probably best to stick with things like ibuprofen or paracetamol. Opiates like codeine or tramadol can cause constipation which is not what you need right now. If you’re already taking stool softeners (e.g. docusate sodium, not laxatives) then maybe you could try codeine. Your GP might be able to give you other ideas too or maybe prescribe something. I’m not sure about using a hot water bottle, maybe consult your surgeon whether applying heat is okay right now. Also, some people swear by TENS machines for relieving period pain.

Hope you feel better soon and wishing you a speedy recovery!

[P1nk87 in reply to parleystopaz0e]

thank you for replying! It’s good to hear that potentially my first will be the worst.

Being so new to this I’m questioning and thinking everything so finding this group is really helpful 🥰

[littlefirtree]

Hello. So sorry to read of the pain you're in.

I'm almost 3 months post-op (my first lap) and the two periods that I've had since have been terrible. Unfortunately I don't have a lot I can recommend. I'm on mefenamic acid for my pain but it doesn't really touch it. I also take paracetamol, which in my experience tends to be a bit kinder on the stomach.

I've felt too tender to use my TENS machine since my op, and personally I don't find it that helpful for my symptoms anyway. However, if you can ask your surgeon or consultant whether it's okay to use one this soon after your op (definitely check first), then like parleystopaz0e says, you may find it helps.

Did you receive much info regarding expected recovery? If you need to call the hospital or your GP due to the pain you're in, please don't hesitate to.

I hope things improve for you very soon.

[P1nk87 in reply to littlefirtree]

thanks for replying.

I do have a machine like a tens machine but not used just yet due to my stitches.

If I’m honest, I got nothing about the recovery. It’s taking me longer to recover then I was expecting (admittedly I didn’t ask how long the recovery time is) but thought I’d have had more info.

Just taking it easy, curled up on the sofa with cuddles from the cat 😸

[littlefirtree in reply to P1nk87]

Sorry to hear that. I was also sent home with no info regarding recovery, just told to have someone with me for the first 24 hours!

My experience has been that it took a lot longer to recover than what they seemed to suggest - they were unbothered when I asked to discuss things when I came round from my op, and like I say they only advised me on the first 24 hours. First 24 hours weren't actually so bad once the horrendous nausea and vomiting had passed, but once the anaesthetic etc. had worn off, boy did I feel bad. I really struggled with getting up from sitting or out of bed for the first week at least. Found it difficult to sleep for the first two weeks ish, until I was able to tentatively sleep on my side with a pillow for support. Fatigue was a big thing for me too. Basically, it was a lot rougher than I thought and I really needed to take it easy, so please don't feel hard on yourself if you're feeling the same. I probably should've taken painkillers more often too!

I did a lot of research pre- and post-op. This leaflet from North Bristol NHS Trust was particularly useful in giving me something to refer to. Obviously take it all with a pinch of salt, these things differ for everyone and will depend on what exactly they operated on and how the endo was treated.

nbt.nhs.uk/sites/default/fi...

Take care.

[P1nk87 in reply to littlefirtree]

oh wow you sound like the exact same experience as me! I didn’t even get to see my surgeon before or after either.

Yea I could barely get out of bed the first week. Like you say they mention the first 24 hours but then that’s it. Thank god for my husband!!!

I found that leaflet too and it was helpful, they should do something like that for all areas when ladies have this procedure as you’re not told half of it!