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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What contraceptive options are there for endometriosis?

    Related Topics
    Endometriosis Pelvic Pain Vulval Conditions
    I was diagnosed with stage IV endometriosis last year. I also have an endometrioma on my left ovary. The endometrioma was unable to be removed as it is attached to my bowel so it was drained. I also had an endometrial abalation, which wasn't 100% successful.

    I commence on the contraceptive pill Yaz which I took continuously until I developed a DVT in July. I started on anti-coagulant therapy (Xarelto) for the DVT, & will stay on this for at least 6 months. Now I am experiencing lengthy menstrual bleeding each month (around 15 days) & continuous left sided back & abdo pain, which is severe at times.
    I am now wondering what my options are in regards to controlling my endometriosis symptoms & to prevent the endometrioma from growing (was around 5cm in June). I am reluctant to have a full hysterectomy due to possible complications/risks involved. Would a Mirena IUD be an option? I am 47 years old.
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    • Women's Health Queensland Wide
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  • Women's Health Queensland Wide

    Women's Health Queensland Wide provides free health information for Queensland women. View Profile

    The Mirena reduces the amount of blood flow during a woman's period. In some cases, it stops it altogether. It is this fact that has made the Mirena an attractive option for the treatment of endometriosis. The Mirena, like other types of IUDs, is inserted by a doctor and remains in the womb for five years. A low dose of levonorgestrel goes directly into the lining of the womb rather than into the bloodstream. At the end of the five-year period, the coil should be removed and, if desired, it can be replaced immediately. The Mirena coil shows much promise for relief of endometriosis symptoms for women who suffer with this painful condition. Hopefully, future research will confirm its efficacy. However, you need to discuss with your specialist if this is a good option for you. Your current medical history and symptoms plus your past medical history need to be taken into consideration. Also it would be good to talk with your specialist about your concerns re possible risks and complications of hysterectomy. You may find after discussion that some of your concerns are reduced. Please click on this link.  http://www.womhealth.org.au/conditions-and-treatments/211-hysterectomy
    Regards 
    Brenda
    Women’s Health Educator
    Health Information Line, Women’s Health Queensland Wide
     
    Women living in Queensland can also call our Health Information Line - a free information and referral service for Queensland women - on 3839 9988 or 1800 017 676 (toll free outside Brisbane).
     
    Please note that all health information provided by Women’s Health Queensland Wide is subject to this disclaimer
     
     

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