20.. endo.. scared /:

Hi everyone.  I am 20 years old and was diagnosed with stage 3 endometriosis about 9 months ago.  That diagnosis was not an easy one, as I was diagnosed with PCOS and fibroids prior to that.  Three weeks ago I was deemed stage 4& my doctor has recommended a laproscopy and partial oopherectomy.  I am scheduled to ship for basic training for the US Air Force on July 11.  I am afraid to get the partial oopherectomy because I am afraid I won't have enough time to recover and/or train before I leave.  I am going through every emotion imaginable... Anger, mostly.  How do I know if the partial oopherectomy is best for me?  My left ovary is covered in scar tissue which has attached my ovary to the side of my abdominal wall.  If I leave the ovary there, what are the chances it will make my endo worse?  Also, if I let it go for now, at least for a year, what are the chances of it turning into cancer?  Infertility?  

Any suggestions or words of comfort would be greatly appreciated.  

Thank you,
C.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
Unfortunately, you may already have enough damage to your reproductive organs to have infertility.  On the other hand, it is quite rare for endometriosis to become cancer.  Most young women in good health can easily bounce back from surgery within 6 weeks, so you likely have time to proceed if that is what you decide you want to do.

Have you discussed all of the medical management options with your doctor -- such as depot Lupron, or depo Provera? It may be that surgery could be delayed or avoided.

I don't blame you for feeling angry about having such severe disease at such a young age.
Thanks for defending our country!

Dr B