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Laparoscopy and Fertility

I have very severe endo. I'm 28 and have had 2 laparoscopies over the years to remove growths. I've been on birth control since not long after my periods started, to control heavy bleeding and pain (even before the diagnosis of endometriosis). I also had a LEEP to remove pre-cancerous cells on my cervix a few years back. Birth control isn't cutting it anymore in terms of endometriosis control.

I'm past the point of diminishing returns. I just tried Orilissa and had debilitating side effects and I cannot use it for treatment. Each time I had a laparoscopy, and when I had the LEEP, I was told how each procedure could impact my ability to conceive and carry a child to term. Anybody know the extent of this?

Right now I'm looking at a 3rd laparoscopy as my only real treatment option. Not even sure if there's anything worth saving at this point. I've been heavily considering asking about a hysterectomy instead - my fiance and I both feel strongly about adoption and it's more the fear of "what-if" that's keeping me from it at this point. But if anyone has any data on HOW harmful laparoscopies are to your fertility (in addition to the endo itself, of course) that would really help me assess my choices at this point.

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  1. Dear - I hope this comment finds you well since your last post. It certainly sounds like you have been dealing with a lot. And we are so sorry to hear this.

    I cannot give exact medical advice about the LEEP procedure causing a negative impact on conceiving, but in my personal opinion, and research, I have found that not to be true. However, I am not a doctor, so that is something hopefully you were able to discuss more in depth with another medical professional. If anything, it may impact it in a positive way. But again, just my personal thoughts!

    I feel you on just wanting everything removed. I have had many moments where I felt like that as well. It is just so frustrating and exhausting sometimes. With that said, I could give you my personal opinion about laparoscopic surgery, but again, please discuss this with a medical professional if you have not already.

    Like any surgery, laparoscopy comes with risks. It all sort of depends on your case, what they need to do, the doctor, etc. From talking with others, I have found many were able to get pregnant after laparoscopy. And for others, pregnancy just was not in the books for them even after surgery (but not because of the surgery).

    So I wouldn't guess the surgery in general is harmful to fertility. Guess it sort of just depends on what is done during surgery. If that makes any sense. But like I said, I am not a medical professional so definitely speak with maybe a fertility doctor about this!

    I know you posted this comment a bit ago. Have you been able to get answers or make any decisions since then? We truly hope you are doing well and would love to hear back from you on how you are doing. Sending hugs and good thoughts -Kimberli (team member)

    1. Hi there warrior. Just thought I would stop by and check in on you. I know you were dealing with a lot when you last posted. How have things been?? Hoping okay <3 -Kimberli (advocate)

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