My Doctor has Told me that I have Endometriosis, Now what?

When you have been told that you have endometriosis (you never heard it any time before), it can lead to skepticism, concern, fear, and feeling of disappointment. Although it affects 1 out of 10 women worldwide, its etiology is poorly understood. A confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis can give relief that at least the cause of pain is found but still there is long journey to go with endometriosis. Here I am sharing few tips what to do once diagnosis is made.

What has led your condition to appear on surface?

Endometriosis is such a widespread disease that it can affect surrounding and distant organs. Depending upon it spread the complaints can be long term pain (period pain-dysmenorrhea, pain during intercourse-dyspareunia, pian while passing urine-dysuria and motion, pain in abdomen on daily basis without relation to menstrual cycle), irritable bowel syndrome (with bowel endometriosis) and subfertility (inability to conceive).

If fertility is your mainworry, then meet your fertility specialist like Dr. Ripal Madnani to have your fertility treatment options (IVF or egg freezing). If you are married already, start to conceive naturally as soon as possible. If you have not found right person or feel still young to conceive, then freeze your eggs as ovarian reserve finish early in endometriosis. The overall success rate in IVF with endometriosis is less because of inflammation caused by endometriosis.

If pain or quality of life is the main concern, then meet your gynec laparoscopic surgeon to discuss the type of surgery you need to undergo. The option would be in this case is laparoscopic excision surgery for endometriosis (LAPEX surgery).

Till you decide your priority:

• Continue your work/job without stressing out
• Remain positive by doing yoga, meditation as endometriosis can affect you at emotional level. Try to make a daily routine and start exercising as it can help you to alleviate your mood and soothe your mind.
• Meet your nutritionist as good diet can play a major role. Have anti-inflammatory food (vegetables, fruits, dark chocolates) and maintain good sleep cycle.
• Get help from your partner, family members, and friends. Good communication and care from beloved ones can help to reduce social isolation, anxiety and depression as endometriosis can affect you at personal and professional front.
• Join local support groups: Learning from each other’s cases can give you a broader picture of the disease and understanding your situation in a better manner.
• Consult your Gynecologist like Dr Ripal Madnani for further discussion of treatment option depending upon your treatment preferences.