Endometriosis- laparoscopy this month, is it the right thing?

[DanielaDressen]

Dd is 23 yo and has textbook endometriosis symptoms. Had an ultrasound and they couldn’t find anything and tried to discharge her. She pushed back and armed with the nice guidelines has asked for a laparoscopy which they’ve agreed to. They’ve said they’ll remove any tissue they find, unless it’s bad in which case she’ll need referring to a tertiary unit.

but two people in the last week have recommended she doesn’t have the laparoscopy at the local hospital with a general gynaecologist. They said they might miss stuff and if they do remove anything it’ll be laser rather than excision. And excision is the gold standard.

shes now torn because she’s worried the GP wouldn’t agree to a referral as she hasn’t actually had endometriosis confirmed yet. She’s worried about being on a waiting list for another 18 months which is how long it’s taken to get this far.

is it worth having the laparoscopy and hopefully getting a diagnosis and then she can make a decision about whether or not to ask for a referral if needed? They’re also wanting to fit the coil while she’s under GA so that could help with symptoms in the mean time.

When you say 2 people have told you not to do it who are these 2 people? I don't know why your daughter would refuse it really, have you asked these questions and voices your concerns to the doctor??

Just two colleagues/friends of friends who both have had severe endometriosis so some experience. Neither rate the local hospital. Haven’t had chance to voice concerns to a doctor as one conversation was today and one two days ago. Her pre op is next week but I think that’ll just be with a nurse for bloods?

My initial dx was made vis a laproscopic procedure, and the gynecologist removed what she could. I can't remember the specifics. I would make the same choice now. It will confirm she has it, and estimate the extent of the endometriosis. It's not a cure all, end all. It doesn't guaranty to make the periods/pain disappear, but it's a huge step to in making a plan moving forward.

Absolutely do not have laser (ablation). Lots of Facebook groups to give more info on this. Better to have diagnostic lap then be referred for excision if needed

Following as have been referred for laparoscopy

Don't have laser
Ask for a diagnostic lap or referral to a BGSE endometriosis centre. Waits are long, I'm a year in and still waiting for an operation date