Endometriosis - Hysterectomy? - Endometriosis Message Board

SRMom · 10-19-2005, 03:11 PM

I'm 46 and have been having lower left pelvic pain since January. It started after I was treated for a UTI, but the bladder problem was cleared up and the pain on the lower left never has (I thought it was my ovary, but it looks clear from tests they've done). I also suffer from terrible PMS, heavy menstrual bleeding, painful cramping, and 2-3 migraines monthly with my period. I've had all the menstrual problems for 10 years and dealt with them the best I could, but I can't take this daily pelvic pain anymore.

I've had ultrasounds, CT scan, and intrauterine/endometrial biopsy. My OB/GYN says the next step is to perform a laparoscopy to look for endometriosis and/or adhesions from my C-section scar. I have a consultation scheduled for Nov. 3.

I understand if endometriosis is found, they can laser it away, but chances are good it will grow back. My question is, at my age, and considering I'm done having children, should I consider having a hysterectomy? I've always joked about wanting one, but the reality is, I don't know what I'd be getting myself into. I'm getting somewhat depressed about being in constant pain and I'd really appreciate any input or support. Thanks.

FairyMagick · 10-19-2005, 10:25 PM

Hi,
I have Endo. I was diagnosed last June. I have a lot of pain even after having a myomectomy. I had all the Endo and other junk lasered and taken out. My doctor told me I could start ttc and I have been for 3 months now. I asked him my last dr apt if after I get pg and have the baby if taking my uterus (I want to keep my ovaries) out would take my pain away. He said there is not guarantee. I did some reach and found that the info he gave me is true. Endo can come back and grow on other organs. And the pain can remain. I hate living with the pain, but would be even more unhappy knowing I had my uterus taken for nothing. Has your doctor tried pain management? I'm not totally sure but I believe when you reach menopause the symptoms of Endo go away. You could also have a myomectomy to have the scare tissue and other stuff removed and keep your organs. Most woman have pain relief after the surgery. I was just such a serve case along with other problems. Good luck to you!

aquatilly · 10-19-2005, 11:19 PM

Endometriosis gets worse over time. If you do indeed have endometriosis it will only get worse. You are a candidate for a hysterectomy at 46. My mom is 49 and just had a hysterectomy yesterday due to endometriosis. She was suffering with severe cramping every day and 3 periods a month. It took her awhile to convince the doctor it was bad enough to get the surgery and it all went smoothly and as of today she is recovering well. Good luck.

SRMom · 10-20-2005, 11:48 AM

If I have my ovaries removed along with my uterus, wouldn't that stop the endo from growing back? I thought the hormones produced by the ovaries were responsible for the growth of the endometrial tissue, and if they are gone with the uterus, then that tissue wouldn't return...am I right?

Thanks for the responses. Aquatilly..I'm glad your mom is feeling better. Her story gives me hope.

FairyMagick...I have been taking pain meds, but I'm building a tolerance to them and I think I need to fix this rather than become totally drug dependant. Thanks for your well wishes.

ktee_uk · 10-21-2005, 03:15 AM

Dear SR

i have read so many conflicting stories about whether endo will or wont come back that I am not sure what to believe. All I can tell you is that my gyno said it was really important to get all the endo out but it can sometimes be difficult as it can grown in many hard to reach places especially in the abdomen including colon. I opted to have my cervix removed also as i did not want to run the risk of mini-periods (I kept my ovaries). In the end they found traces of endo on my cervix too so I ws glad to get rid. I also had adenomyosis (endometreosis interna) which was probably the cause of most of my pain as it made my uterus spasm similar to childbirth.

I am now 6 months since surgery and feeling good. In fact it is amazing how quickly you forget about how much pain you had every day. I cannot believe i put up with it for so many years. And now, no pain ....... fantastic.

regards and good luck
ktee