Living with Endo-Part 1

Endometriosis can be defined as a disease when uterine lining tissue migrates and forms on other organs of the body, usually pelvic. It causes inflammation and can be very painful as a result. It affects five million women in the United States among childbearing ages. The unfortunate side of this disease is that it is usually diagnosed late in the stage (Stage IV is severe) because doctors will tell patients, as in my case that the pain you are experiencing is very normal. They'll recommend taking over the counter medications such as Aleve or Motrin. These meds only mask and dull the pain.I felt it in my heart that this pain was not normal.

Endometriosis means to me, a disease that has disrupted my everyday way of living. I was a healthy, happy 30 year old female. I had my whole life ahead of me. A wonderful husband who would do anything for me as I would do the same. We were married almost a year (known each other for 10 years dating) with the house, two fabulous dogs and were excited to start a family. We had lots of support and love from our families from the very beginning.

I had been on the pill for 8 years and we had decided now was our time to start trying. I can remember the first period I had being off the pill was extremely painful, it was a remembrance of the painful periods I would have as a young girl. Even back then it was normal to have a painful period, said the doctors at every annual checkup. I made an appointment with my GYN who tried to reassure me that the pain was a wonderful thing because it indicated that I was now fertile. That was news to me which later lead to a series of more painful periods. This happen in June, 2008 and by that August I started having this sharp pain , almost like I would describe it as a metal rod being forced into my left ovary. Now, I did my research beforehand and had an inclination that it was an ovarian cyst. I never had one before but coming off the pill, it was very possible. My husband and I held off on TTC. The doctor prescribed me some pain medication which only led to headaches that were so unbearable for me to function. He also recommended an ultrasound appointment. As doctors orders, I did go to the appointment.

Does anyone know of any grants for IVF?

I am unable to get pregnant without the aid of IVF. I have Stage IV Endometriosis and suffered a massive post- op infection which left me with only one fallopian tube. My chances of getting pregnant on my own are slim to none. The doctors' have told me that I could run into the risk of having a ectopic pregnancy where the fetus implants onto the fallopian tube.

My husband and I want more than anything right now to start a family. Unfortunately, our health insurance doesn't consider IVF a medical necessity, therefore, we are left to pay the entire cost of IVF therapy out of pocket. In my case I have a medical condition that is compromising my fertility and the best solution to treat my disease, is pregnancy. If I could get pregnant it will not only fulfill our dream of becoming parents but will set my body into a remission state and free of suffering with pain. If anyone knows anything and can help, please do. Thank you for taking the time to read this blog.