Diagnosed with stage 3/4 endometriosis in February 2025 by endometriosis expert based on physical exam and MRI showing multiple endometriomas, bowel tenting, and abutting ovaries. One of my cysts ruptured and since then, my symptoms have significantly decreased. I am taking Vit E, Resveratrol, NAC and using red light therapy. I no longer have pain with ovulation and only take 400mg of ibuprofen the first two days of my period. Intercourse can be painful with deep penetration. I scheduled a surgery for July of this year out of concern that the endo has attached to my bowel and I want to prevent further damage and a more complicated surgery if I were to wait. I also hope to preserve my ovaries. My surgeon explained that it is possible the ovaries are so damaged that after removing the endometriomas, there may not be anything worth leaving and he may have to remove them. I am concerned about being ins surgical menopause at 39yo. My surgeon does not provide HRT guidance or a prescription. He only does the surgical side of things. I am having difficulty finding a provider that understands how to prescribe HRT for women with a history of endometriosis. I have so many concerns about losing my estrogen and progesterone due to surgical menopause and feel very confused about the safety of HRT for women with a history of endo. The health effects of not having my hormones at 39yo seem huge, both short and long term (insomnia, mood changes, weight gain, osteoporosis, cognitive decline, and heart disease). Especially when things are working just fine as they are right now, and my quality of life is not currently greatly affected by my endometriosis. I feel rather lost about whether or not this is the right timing for surgery and how to go about managing HRT post surgery. My surgeon explained that if I keep my ovaries, I will have decreased function of them for several months due to them being operated on(removing the endometriomas), so do I just tough it out regarding hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats etc. during that time?
Endometriosis
Endometriosis in College: How to Take Care of Yourself When Life Doesn’t Pause
College is challenging enough when you’re healthy – throw endometriosis into the mix, and it can feel downright impossible some days. Classes, exams, and the
December 23, 2024
Thank you for sharing your case. Given the complexity, a pelvic mapping with Enzian classification is essential to guide a precise and conservative surgical plan, aiming to preserve your ovaries whenever possible due to their vital role in long-term health. Deep endometriosis requires a multidisciplinary approach, including expert surgery, hormonal management, and pelvic floor therapy. Before proceeding, a comprehensive evaluation is key to balance disease control with preserving your quality of life.