Endometriosis and hysterectomy

Hi, i'm new to this site, and was wondering if someone could help me out with a few questions. I have just recently been diagnosed with endometrosis after suffering for years. I had my laproscopy in March 2003 and have been taking danazol for the last month now. What i am wondering about is my doctor has brought up hysterectomy as an option if the danazol doesn't work for me. I have three wounderful children and don't plan on having any more so it seems like the right way to go. Has anyone had a hysterectomy to be rid of endo? And has it worked? I really really need to be able to move along with my life again. Some days the pain is unbearable, and i really need to be able to move and lift as my youngest child has special needs and needs lifting etc. Also, my mother had a hysterectomy when she was 30 due to fibroids, and i was wondering if i have a higher chance of getting fibroids with it being in my family? I know that endo can run in familys, but know nothing about fibroids.
Thanks so much if you can answer some of my questions. )
Jo

Hi Jo

I had a TAH/BSO about a year and a half ago, primarily due to severe stage 4 endometriosis. However, it turns out I also had adenomyosis and I had a history of fibroids too.

Yes, I believe fibroids can run in families too ... I don't have a specific reference for you at the moment, but I can tell you that my mom had a hyst for fibroids and so did my older sister.

You asked if anyone with endo has had a hyst and remained endo free. You are asking the right question. There are some ladies who have had recurrances, even after a hyst. Part of the problem with this disease is that the docs really don't know for sure what causes it. Some of the current thinking includes the possibility that it is an autoimmune disease. So, even if you have a hyst no one can guarantee that you'll be "cured" forever.

That said, many ladies do just great after a hyst and never have endo again. I'm doing great at a year and a half post op and keeping my fingers crossed.

I highly recommend that you get at least two opinions before making the decision to have a hyst. You might even want to consult with a gyn oncologist because they are especially adept at handling difficult surgeries ... and endo patients often require specialized surgical skills.

Keep reading and asking questions and make the decision that is best for YOU. We'll do our best to provide support, whatever you decide.

Beth