Pam
A few years ago, I was diagnosed with Level 5 endometriosis. They did several surgeries to remove what they could and I finally had a total hysterectomy. Since then I have felt better. However, because of having so many surgeries that developed scar tissue and the fact that I also have fibromyalgia and a couple of other medical problems, I now have to be on Level 2 pain medication and will probably be in pain for the rest of my life. In hindsight I would have had the hysterectomy sooner, but I had just gotten married and we really wanted kids. The good news is that after the hysterectomy the endometriosis has totally stopped (as shown by subsequent surgeries). You will be faced with some hard decisions as you go forward, so check with your doctor about the long-term expectations. My doctor said that it was not unusual to need repeated surgeries to deal with the scar tissues, and recurring pain. However, surgeons are getting better and causing fewer scar tissues than ever before. Even for myself there is some experimental stuff being done at John Hopkins using a "functional MRI" that is so far having some amazing results. Therefore, try not to get too discouraged as I am still working 40 hours most weeks and able to garden and do some fun things as long as I pace myself. Feel free to contact me if you have more questions as I have definitely been through all of it. There are also local chapters of the Endometriosis Association that has lots of information and support groups. Hopefully there is one in your area. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Resigned but Hopeful