From Teen to Adult: My Endo Pain Management Experiences

I have been battling endometriosis for 20 years now. Endometriosis was only the beginning of my chronic health issues. This condition led me to different pain management clinics throughout my life. Some of these experiences have been better than others. I hope that sharing my experiences will help others who are struggling to find relief.

My background with endometriosis

I was barely in high school when a team of gynecologists performed my first laparoscopic surgery, officially diagnosing me with stage 4 endometriosis. They also took the time to remove all the adhesions they found. After my surgery, I started Lupron right away. Despite all of this, my pain was still out of control.

The medical team finally told us they did not know what else to do for me. They referred me to a specialist in Houston, Texas. He instantly changed my medication because I had been on Lupron for far too long.

First pain clinic experience gave me hope

My new specialist did everything in his power to help me manage my pain. Unfortunately, my pain was still so bad that I often missed school and was hospitalized during my periods. He decided I should go to the pain clinic at Texas Children's Hospital. By this time, I was 16 and I had been dealing with endometriosis for 2 years.
I can honestly say, visiting the Texas Children's Hospital pain clinic was the best experience I have ever had with pain doctors. The staff was extremely friendly. The doctors did not doubt my pain. They created a game plan for when I had bad pain days. I was instructed to take one medication, wait 20 minutes, then take another medication if the pain was still bad.

Doctors denied my endo pain as an adult

I believe that I ended up with a false sense of security when it came to pain doctors after my treatment at the Texas Children's Hospital pain clinic. They made me feel so heard and understood. I was not ready for the issues that I would face in other clinics.

I have seen so many doctors who have been quick to say that I am exaggerating my pain or that I am just dealing with normal period pain like everyone else (and being a baby about it). Believe it or not, one doctor even told me that I am simply depressed.

It is beyond upsetting to be in so much pain that you cannot function while the medical professionals around you do not believe you. Since endometriosis can only be seen during laparoscopic surgeries, some doctors struggle to conceptualize it.

Finally, a doctor who gets it

I was so skeptical about seeing another pain management doctor after some of the experiences I had over the years. When I first visited my current pain clinic, I was surprised to find that the doctor did not doubt my pain. I almost cried to find a doctor who believed me again.

This time, the doctor has his hands full with me. Sadly, endometriosis is not my only chronic pain issue. I now live with multiple pain conditions, such as endometriosis, chronic migraine, and chronic back pain.

It has been a challenge but at least he is taking steps to treat me with medications, various nerve block injections, and ablation procedures. We are also trying therapies such as water physical therapy and acupuncture. I still live with chronic pain, but we have been able to take small steps in the right direction.

Share your experiences with endometriosis pain relief

What has your experience been while seeking pain management for endometriosis?