Gynae Consultation November 2023

Written: 07.02.24

21st November 2023

I had my first consultation with a new gynaecology consultant who listened to my history and sent me for a pelvic MRI to check the extent of my endometriosis.

The MRI came back as expected, confirming rectovaginal endometriosis with a significant cervical nodule. Thickening of the bowel and vesicovaginal space.

He put me on an analogue implant Prostap 11.25mg intramusculary prior to surgery to shut down activity in my ovaries and make the surgery easier (his words). I asked whether I could have any add back HRT as I'd heard stories about Lupron/Prostap but he said he would prefer me to 'suffer' the symptoms until surgery as it would have a better impact.

I will be having a hysterectomy and removal of both tubes and ovaries, plus excision of the endometriosis. There is a risk of a possible bowel resection and stoma, but I am positive that the outcome will be a good one and that this will not be necessary. I am hopeful that this will greatly reduce the constant pain and that I can get back to my life and move forwards.

Prostap implant

I had my Prostap implant administered on the 15th December and initially the first two weeks were ok. After 2.5 weeks I started to get frequent hot flushes that were tough. I'd feel cold put a jumper on, then 5 mins later take it off and on and off and on. The flushes started in my chest and torso and overtook my body. It's hard to explain unless you have experienced it.

I started to pile on the weight, nothing fits me, only stretchy stuff and my tummy is bloated and uncomfortable, the implant sometimes gives out sharp pains. I had a few sore dry spots on my face and itchy skin that took ages to go away. Typically I had a reaction to it the day it was put in and I needed steroids, antihistamines and cream to reduce the swelling and burning. It happened again a month later.

The worst side effect for me once the hot flushes stopped was the flat, meh, lack lustre feeling i constantly had. I didn't feel low, depressed or anxious. Just every ounce of zest, spark, energy and motivation has been removed. This has by far been the hardest symptom for me. I struggled to get up in the mornings and lacked the 'get up and go' to get out for a walk or do anything but attend my medical appointments. This was a stark contrast to how I had always been before despite my illness. I even started my period the week leading up to surgery after 2 months period free. I like to think of it as a final goodbye! Goodbye to the inflammation, the toxicity in my body and the constant pain.

I have surgery booked for the beginning of February (2024) and I know this will be the start of a brand new chapter for me. A fresh start, new beginnings.

LBH x