Trying to figure out if I should do laparoscopic surgery
Hi everyone,
I've just found this community and poured into reading the discussions here. It's been really helpful to gain insight in everyone's unique endo journey and the amazing support system in place!
I am writing because I am debating if I should do the laparoscopic surgery with an endo specialist. My obgyn says it's the only way to diagnose it. We've tried an MRI and colonoscopy with 0 findings.
I'm suffering from severe cramps every month, usually with 1 day where I would not manage without taking pain relievers. I usually need to lie down for the entire day. It also comes with bad bloating, heavy bleeding, lower back pain and the feeling of complete exhaustion. My periods last for 7 days, sometimes 10. I used to have UTIs pretty commonly but that's now under control, and had pain on my right abdomen that my GP thought it was Crohn's or IBS. Reflux comes and goes as well.
I'm just worried that I'm over-reacting on my pain (I have low tolerance), or that I'm really not bleeding that heavy. The symptoms align but it's hard to gauge what "very painful" or "heavy bleeding" is. And what if I go through the process of surgery and it was all for nothing? What would you do?
Thanks for reaching out here. It can be hard to know what to do. Based on your symptoms, I would do the surgery. Severe cramps, fatigue that takes you out for a day, UTIs, reflux, and IBS are all signs of endo. I know surgery can seem scary...I put off seeing a doctor for a couple of years because I was worried about surgery. But I'm thankful I did it. Seeing another doctor for a second opinion is also a good idea, in my book. ~Katrina, Endometriosis.net Advocate You are not overreacting. I did not want to get laparoscopic surgery when I was having symptoms similar to yours. I thought I was overreacting myself. In fact, some of my doctors told me I wasn’t in as much pain as women with diagnosed endo. But I just couldn’t take it anymore. I was in so much pain, so I got the surgery. And my biopsies confirmed endometriosis. Though it’s not the news you want to hear, it is instant gratification. What you are going through is real. Think about it and make a list of pros and cons. Just remember, no matter the result of surgery, it is a step closer to feeling better. 
I am so glad that you found our community here, It is great that you have taken the time to read some of the information we have available.
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