Hi all,
I had my first gynaecology appointment today after experiencing endometriosis symptoms (specifically rectal bleeding during period and intense pelvic, back and leg pain especially related to bowel movements). The gynaecologist said its highly likely to be endo on bowel (mum has this too).
From reading this forum, info on Endometriosis UK, NICE guidelines and RCOG guidelines, I was expecting this would trigger a referral for MRI (had US previously and was clear), and possibly to a specialist endometriosis centre given possible bowel involvement.
The consultant said laparoscopy isn't an option due to possible bowel involvement (said they wouldn't be able to see it). I wasn't 'wanting' this anyway, since my pain is currently isolated to my periods and I don't want to risk making anything worse for the time being, especially since I don't have a solid diagnosis. When I queried MRI, they said this is only done post-laparoscopy so not an option.
I was told I 'have' to go back on the pill, since this will help pain and stop endo growing. I have heard that the pill does manage pain, but I've never heard that it actually stops endo growth. My pain is currently mostly manageable with Ponstan, so I expressed my priority is to find answers as I'm 23 and would like to have children in the future - this could help me plan. I was told that if I want children I should go back on the pill ASAP before it grows more.
I've been on the pill before, and have only just got my periods back to being regular 2 years after stopping the pill, so I am reluctant to go back on it for this & other reasons. However, if it does stop growth I would of course consider it as an option.
I was just wondering if anyone else has heard that the pill can stop endo growth? Also, has anyone with bowel endo received a diagnosis from an MRI instead of a laparoscopy? And does anyone know if I should be referred to a specialist centre?
Thanks ❤️