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Failed Laparoscopy, Laparotomy Next Step

Hello everyone! I'm curious if anyone has had the exploratory laparoscopy done only to be told afterwards that there were "so many thick bands of adhesions/scarring" that they couldn't get through it to remove or fix anything. My GYN then recommended a laparotomy. I have not scheduled that yet. There seem to be many risks involved. Has anyone had a laparotomy for endo? I can't seem to find a lot of info about it and it scares me. Thanks in advance!

  1. Hello I haven’t had a laparotomy, but what I did experience was being told after a laparoscopy that there was so much, that the surgeon in charge didn’t feel comfortable treating the adhesions. But that’s when I went to see a specialist, who had no issue with performing a laparoscopy and removing it all. Was it an endometriosis specialist who recommended the laparotomy? Could you get a second opinion from a different doctor? – Jessie (team member)

    1. Hello I haven’t had a laparotomy, but what I did experience was being told after a laparoscopy that there was so much, that the surgeon in charge didn’t feel comfortable treating the adhesions. But that’s when I went to see a specialist, who had no issue with performing a laparoscopy and removing it all. Was it an endometriosis specialist who recommended the laparotomy? Could you get a second opinion from a different doctor? – Jessie (team member)

      1. Hi Kimberli! Unfortunately, with the COVID-19 issue, everything us at a stand still. I have, however, found some symptom relief with more exercise, stressing less, and eating a better diet! It is by no means a "cure," but my past few cycles have been so much better! Thanks for checking on me!

        I plan to have a second opinion once things get back to "normal."

      2. , ugh this COVID stuff has really made it hard for so many. Truly hope things get back to normal soon so you can get your second opinion.

        I love those things you have listed as helping you find some relief. Those few things have been a game changer for me as well. Certainly like you said not a cure, but definitely helpful! So glad to hear they help you and your cycles!

        Well, certainly keep us posted when you do get to see your doctor. I truly hope they can offer you some advice and help! Until then, keep resting and doing what you are doing <3 -Kimberli (team member)

    2. Hello, I am a doctoral candidate doing qualitative research on Endo. Please check out the description below and contact me/complete the survey if interested. Also feel free to share this study!

      Title -
      A Biopsychosocial and Transactional Understanding of Endometriosis and Childhood Abuse: A Phenomenological Study

      Purpose -
      The purpose of this study is to examine the essence of the experience of women living with endometriosis and a history of childhood abuse. Through the interview process, the participants’ lifeworld – their past, present, and future – will be accessed and meaning will be derived at individual and group levels. Utilizing the biopsychosocial model and transactional model of stress and coping, the results will attempt to reflect upon how women who have both of these experiences build understand through cognitive development about their world and existence.

      Eligibility -
      Women who are 18-45 years old, have a diagnosis of endometriosis and a history of childhood abuse (sexual, physical, emotional, verbal, etc.), and whom complete this questionnaire (https://springfieldcollege.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cwpClLw9u7Pe537) may be eligible to participate in the study.

      Method -
      After completion of the questionnaire, participants may be asked to attend a recorded in-person or virtual semi-structured interview that will last approximately 60 minutes. The highest standards of consent, confidentiality, and anonymity will be upheld. All individuals selected for the interview stage will be sent the results from the interpretive phenomenological analysis both for verification of accuracy and as acknowledgement of their time and effort.

      Contact -
      Virginia Schwager, M.Ed., Psy.D. Candidate, Springfield College
      Email - Endostudy2018@gmail.com
      Questionnaire - https://springfieldcollege.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cwpClLw9u7Pe537

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