Had 1st Lap and MD wants to put me on Lupron-help

I was on BC from 17-27 y/o.  At 27, I went off when we TTC unsuccessfully.  Last year we adopted a little girl.  VERY happy, but didn't want to go back on BC since I just didn't want the extra hormones that apparently weren't necessary to prevent pregnancy anyway since we had infertility issues.

July 2010 I started having pain immediately before a bowel movement.  Had 5 day periods, cramped, but just thought it ws normal.  Finally, this past month went to the doctor for BM pain after reading it could be cancer or endo or other things.  Endo seemed the least scary, so I thought to start investigating that possible diagnosis.  MD thought it was Endo after finding a cyst and scheduled Laparoscopy.  After actually being asked about any pain from the cyst, I started paying attention (I guess I got used to it and ignored it), and I'd say there was a constant ache at a level 3-4 on a pain scale.  But really, the BM thing was the worst of my pain.

Turns out, my hunch was right.  Had a Laproscopy last Tuesday and MD removed a 8 cm cyst, a few small ones, the right ovary, and cleaned up a bunch of adhesions.  My uterus is retroflexed, and the cyst was hiding behind it.  Each BM pushed on the cyst causing pain.  For the most part, I'm up and moving again.  I'm 8 days post op and now having some stabbing pain where the right ovary used to be, but after reading here, that seems normal.

Anyway, MD is suggesting Lupron.  After reading the side effects and user stories here, I admit, I'm scared.  It seems like the side effects happen to ALOT of people.  I was wondering if anyone's doctor suggests or if anyone has just gone on constant birth control to minimize reoccurences instead of Lupron and if that worked or if MD's advised against it.  Any light you can shed would be much appreciated.  

[domandcamismom]

I have not been put on lupron yet but my doctor is considering it because of my Endo.  I found some information on the drug at the link below.  Hopefully it helps a little and maybe put your mind at ease some.

http://www.drugs.com/lupron.html

[achilles2]

If you chose to have the lupron injections. Be sure to DEMAND add-back therapy. My doctor said that it is the equivalent of torture not to offer add-back. He should know he was one of the original researchers and doctors for lupron. Also make sure that you get blood work I had my blood checked every month to check on the hormone levels. (What dose would you get? My doctor does the every four week dose. I think he thinks the others are too strong. The maximum time you can be on Lupron is one year)

I hope this helps,

achilles2

[mrsamandal]

I go for my post-op Wednesday, so I'm not sure.  I just wanted to get some baseline info so I go in prepared with questions/suggestions/fears, etc.

Thank you for your response.  I will be sure to add those to my list of questions! :)