The good news is, you were diagnosed early. Most women wait an average of 9 yrs. and go through about 5 doctors before anyone takes them seriously enough to diagnose and treat them. Early intervention and treatment is the key to dealing with Endo. I assume you had your disease removed during the diagnostic surgery? If not, you need to see another doctor ASAP; one who knows that the gold standard for Endo treatment is surgical excision and removal of all disease from all locations.
Other treatments, such as hormonal suppression through GnRH agonists (Lupron, Zoladex, etc.) do *not* improve fertility rates in women with Endometriosis, and they only serve to a.) mask disease temporarily and b.) further delay attempts at conception (they are category X drugs and thereby contraindicated in pregnancy). Bottom line, these are treatments you want to avoid.
Though Endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility, the concept that no woman with Endo can have a child is misleading. Sometimes, the woman needs medical and/or surgical intervention to assist, but ultimately, most women with Endo who want a child, can have a child [see www.centerforendo.com for a good article on Endo and pregnancy].
Typically speaking, you won't know until you try. The general rule of thumb is, if nothing happens by 6 mos., you need to talk to your gyn and possibly a Reproductive Endocrinologist to determine what further interventions may be necessary.
**In the meanwhile, pregnancy is not something that can be "prescribed." It is not a treatment or cure for Endo, as some people mistakenly believe, and there is no hard and fast rule that having Endo = no children. There are treatments and protocols available now that can help even the most infertile of couples. Live your life, don't live it in fear of - and around - this disease...it doesn't have to be like that. You don't have to run out and have a prescribed child, or start saving for an adoption you might not need, or live in fear of "what if."***
Good luck and hope it all works out. Definitely check out the specialty center linked above for a wealth of info...also see http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/erc and http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ercgirltalk for more info and support.
2007-02-05 00:22:56
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answer #1
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answered by Endo 6
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Be very careful in making such a huge decision at this age. A baby brings a lot of joy, but much more responsibility. I am not sure if you are married, but not going against single motherhood, it is better to have someone there to help. Even if you are in a serious relationship, I would not attempt to get pregnant. I understand your concern about not being able to conceive, but I would not try now. Wait until you have the emotional support of a husband and that you can provide the best life for a child financially, emotionally, and spiritually. I don't know you, but I am praying for you.
2007-02-05 03:47:38
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answer #2
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answered by heavenly24_1999 1
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Hi, I was 17 when I was told I had something that I should have a baby to cure it. I was waking from surgery so didn't understand the name of it,by the time I was 20 it was extensive and I needed surgery and medication to get rid of it. I married in 1983 and it took until 1987 for me to be pregnant and stay pregnant.
So I think you should keep an eye on it,perhaps ask your doctor for a laparascope to assess the extent of endo,and start the medication treatment now if it's needed .Don't let them "see how it develops'You shouldn't have to wait until you are ready to concieve ,only to find you can't conceive due to endo and scarring.
A baby at 19 isn't the answer,I hope your doctor didn't suggest that as mine did LOL Get a referal if you need to,to get on top of it now.
i have 3 children BTW :)
2007-02-05 04:19:08
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answer #3
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answered by BeeMay 3
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Are you ready for a child right now? Do you have a boyfriend who wants to be a father? Do you have education? A good job? Health care? Family support? These are all things that you need to have in order to give this child a good, happy and healthy life. I know that you may want a baby of your own but unless you are ready to have one now, is it really fair to the child? For help in this matter, I would talk toyour parents, other trusted adults, doctors and look into other options before you decide. Good Luck!
Oh! And I in my early 20's was faced with a problem that could have affected me having a child of my own too, so I can relate - but I am now 28, have all the things I asked you and find myself pregnent, so it can happen!
2007-02-05 03:52:44
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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wait a few years to try and have a baby your to young start saving now and no matter how it turns out you either have the money for the kids or you have there college fund
2007-02-05 04:15:22
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answer #5
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answered by debrasearch 6
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