Endometriosis Support Group
Endometriosis is a common medical condition where the tissue lining the uterus is found outside of the uterus, typically affecting other organs in the pelvis. The condition can lead to serious health problems, primarily pain and infertility. A major symptom of endometriosis is pain, mostly in the lower abdomen, lower back, and pelvic area.
I recently had a laparoscopic/hysteroscopic surgery to correct a birth defect called a septate uterus. We had already suspected I had endometriosis as well, because of pelvic pain and painful periods. It was confirmed during the surgery that I have Stage 3 endometriosis, which is apparently pretty bad (there are 4 stages). He lasered off as much of the endo as he could get. However, there is some left. I also have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Lucky me!
The doc says the endo puts out a chemical that will interfere with the egg being fertilized, and so pregnancy right now is unlikely. Because I would like to try to conceive sometime in 2010, the doc wants to start me on Depo Lupron as soon as possible for 6 months. He alerted me about the menopausal side effects, and also told me that it's only a temporary fix long enough to hopefully get pregnant.
My 3 questions are:
1. Does anyone have more information about how endometriosis interferes with the sperm fertilizing the egg?
2. Are there any of you that have had good luck with Depo Lupron? I have only read horror stories. Surely, it has helped someone get pregnant!
3. Does anyone know of a better treatment?
Thanks so much!
- Lizz
The doc says the endo puts out a chemical that will interfere with the egg being fertilized, and so pregnancy right now is unlikely. Because I would like to try to conceive sometime in 2010, the doc wants to start me on Depo Lupron as soon as possible for 6 months. He alerted me about the menopausal side effects, and also told me that it's only a temporary fix long enough to hopefully get pregnant.
My 3 questions are:
1. Does anyone have more information about how endometriosis interferes with the sperm fertilizing the egg?
2. Are there any of you that have had good luck with Depo Lupron? I have only read horror stories. Surely, it has helped someone get pregnant!
3. Does anyone know of a better treatment?
Thanks so much!
- Lizz
I unfortunately had a bad experience with the Lupron. I personally think it's the drug from hell. The side effects are horrible and almost destroyed my relationship. I've been off Lupron since 11/4/09 and I'm still dealing with confusion and mood swings. They have gotten milder yes, but I'm still dealing with them. As for another treatment right now I'm using the NuvaRing continuisly so I don't get a period. I personally am using this to buy my time till I can save money for another Mirena. My first Mirena was a miracle, and I was stable emotionally while using my first Mirena. I wish so hard that I had an easy answer for you on your questions.
One thing to look into though is to see if you are Insulin Sensitive or Resistant. I found a wonderful team of world renowned doctors in April, and was notified that Endo, PCOS, IBS, Depression, and Anxiety are all caused by Insulin Sensitivity. Talk with your doctor about this, and if you decide to get tested do the 5 hour glucose/insulin test instead of the 3 because per my doctor insulin sensitivity or resistance sometimes doesn't show up until the 4th or 5th hour.
Here is a link for you.
http://www.johnmathias.com/
I wish I could write more, but I'm really sick with the flu right now. I will check back with you when I'm alittle better.
Feel free to email/message me anytime, even if it's just to vent. You are not alone.
God Bless,
Kristie
I would think long and hard about a 2nd opinion before getting treatment for what he is describing.
Also, I have seen endo specialists, who basically said that unless you have fallopian tube problems (they are attached to things or covered in endo) or ovarian problems where they are distorted or covered in endo, endo ITSELF does not make you infertile.
I know PCOS can cause fertliity problems, but the treatment for that is completely different to that of endo.
Basically, endo can cause hormonal problems, but you would need your hormones tested seperately of treatment and many of us with endo can conceive naturally with no help.
Lastly, Lupron and Depo (from what I know) shut off ovarianfunction to make you go into menopause. This is normally the LAST thing you want if you intend to conceive. I was given Lupron as a last option and the surgeon agreed that if I was trying to conceive, it makes no sense to go on it.
There are reported long term side effects and I have a complete paranoia that drugs like that will affect my ability to conceive, which we are trying for now.
Also, when I got pregnant (I miscarried), my endo symptoms were gone completely.
I would suggest seeing a fertility doctor and getting a 2nd opinion before you go ahead with what he is suggesting.
http://www.centerforendo.com/articles/suppmeds.htm
Remember it is your body and you are doing the right thing by researching before making a decision on how to proceed for what is best for you.
Good luck!
In my case i have a Sub septated uterus, PCOS and Endo aswell as a tyroid problem, i have had Zoladex which is similar to lupron it was very hard, pls do a lot of research and remeber anything that doesnt agree with you you can stop.