Help what should I expect the doctor to do on my first visit for endometriosis??

Question

I found out about a month ago that I have endometriosis. I was in the ER when I found out so I haven't been to my gyno yet. They told me to follow up with my ob so my appointment is this Friday morning and I am kinda nervous. Anyone know what I should expect??

Answer 1

Your doctor will just ask you about the pain you've been feeling and give you your treatment options. She may want to do/schedule an ultrasound to actually make sure it's endometriosis, not cysts, unless you've had that done already. My doctor put me on a new type of birth control to stop the growth and pain, since my old birth control wasn't helping. She may want you to try a new medication, like I was given, or if you're having intense pain, she may want to schedule a laparoscopy, which is where they make a small incision into your abdomen and put a little camera in there to look around.  My doctor told me the laparoscopy was a little invasive and that you should try other treatment methods before that surgery.

Answer 2

I was told the only way to have "officially" diagnosis endometriosis is via laproscopic surgery because the doctor can see the implants. I had the surgery about a year ago, but my doctor did initially suspect endo based on my symptoms. Don't be nervous about your doctor visit. He/She may exam you again, but they can also use the doctors notes and ultrasound dictation from the ER visit. I am sure the doctor will be most concerned about controlling your pain (I take 550mg of naproxen sodium when I have symptoms and I find that to be really helpful for pain). I have also been taking the BCP where I only get my period 3 times a year. This helps to reduce the progression of the endo because you are getting fewer periods (I was also concerned about preserving my fertility too). There are lots of good resources on the internet, so I would recommend reading some info on your own and maybe formulating some questions in preparation for your doctors visit. Relax, all will go smoothly...just be sure you get all the info you need from the doctor and don't be afraid to get a second opinion!