Laparoscopy / Endometriosis

Dear Dr, I have suffered with unbearable periods since the age of 11 (I am now 23). My symptoms are heavy bleeding for 7 days, large blood clots, back pain, flooding, painful intercourse, leg pain, depression, mood swings, loss of stale brown blood, irregular bleeding etc. I always have to spend at least 2 days in bed with painkillers and a hotwater bottle. Over the past few years no doctors have attempted to help me until August this year when I changed my doctors for the 3rd time, the doctor straight away said Endometriosis to me and referred me to the hospital. On the 17th December 2001 I underwent a Laparoscopy, when I came round from the op the nurse told me only one incision had been made in my belly button because they could not find anything! I am due to go back to the hospital on the 31st December, I had a period last week and it was one of my worst my doctor even asked if I was having a miscarriage ( I am on the pill also)! I cannot go on like this I know I should be pleased if they cannot find anything but to be honest I am not because I cannot go on like this anymore. I would really appreciate your advise and what questions to ask when I go back to the hospital.

Dear Sara-
You most likely have a form of endometriosis known as adenomyosis-it attacks the uterine muscle. Even on laparoscopy…a doctor may not notice it. You need to have the disease laser removed….and the uterus reconstructed. We have had great success allowing women to keep their uterus for hormone balance and normal sexual functioning, with very little if any pain. Please do your research on hysterectomies before consenting…that is an irreversible procedure with many possible complications.
Good Luck