Suspected Endo Confusion

[Greenspecs]

Hi there, i'm just looking for some advice because i'm feeling very lost with everything. I've had endo symptoms (debilitating periods, leg pain, painful sex, bowel pain, rectal bleeding etc) since 2020, back and forth to doctors and had most investigations apart from MRI and lap. Finally a doctor started treating me for suspected endo this year based on symptoms but i already had a mirena coil fitted. She's just focussing on pain relief meds but i'm wondering whether i should be pushing for more investigation/gynae referral/lap surgery (although i don't really want that). I can just about get through the pelvic and leg pain now with various pain remedies but it's all the bladder and bowel symptoms that i have no control over. And i'm worried that until i have the surgery, it could be something else entirely causing the symptoms! Would be grateful to know anyone's thoughts on this, thank you!

[Moon_maiden]

Hi

Definitely push for MRI, it’s not foolproof for showing Endo but gives a good chance unless they have an expert in checking Endo on ultrasound or you go private. A really good specialist can see it on ultrasound.

It’s worth considering other things as well, I had a chronic gallbladder for I don’t know how long, if you get MRI make sure they do abdomen as well as pelvis.

The coil or something like Zoladex seems to be a go to but you don’t have to try either and can tell them you want more investigation. It’s one of their ways of reducing waiting lists for operations and looking good, at least that’s my view.

[Greenspecs in reply to Moon_maiden]

Ok that's really useful, thank you!

[Sunset-lady]

I agree with Moon maiden get an MRI. You need to know what you're dealing with so you can make the right choices for your body. Endometriosis does not go away but with the right lifestyle and diet you can effectively switch off many of the debilitating symptoms- but you need to know what's happening. Be brave and good luck x

[Greenspecs]

Thanks for words, that's encouraging to hear! i will definitely try get MRI next x