Question: Can I have Endometriosis of the bowel?
In researching my current health problem online, I note that "about 5% of endometriosis cases are seen in postmenopausal women, and exogenous estrogen replacement therapy is suggested to play a role".
I am 67 years old. Up until two years ago, I have been on HRT since age 40, and since stopped taking orally, I am now using Vagifem 10 (but still having hot flushes). I had a hysterectomy at age 39, during which surgery, my bladder apparently collapsed - the bladder was cut open and endometriosis stripped from the lining. The endo was also lining the outside of the bladder as well as the outside of the uterus and other parts. During that surgery, the uterus was removed as well as the cervix, fallopian tubes and all but chips of both ovaries. Further surgeries followed over the years for the removal of large ovarian cysts (see my medical history attached).
Since 18 years of age, I have suffered 'abdominal attacks' whereby extreme cramps have caused me to pass out, followed by severe diarrhoea. Various specialists over the years have put the 'attacks' down to 'spastic colon' and/or 'IBS' although apparently my symptoms do not quite fit the norm. In recent years I have been taking Dicetel which seems to relax the bowel and prevents a full-blown 'attack', but in recent weeks I have been having to take more and more of the Dicetel.
My current problem is apparently a chronic rectal tear and a posterior and anterior rectocele (proctogram report also attached). These past few weeks, I am having great difficulty defecating. I have to strain intensely - only to produce nothing but small soft stools and clearly bowel movements are not complete.
I have been seen by various specialists, but in view of all my surgeries, none are keen to operate.
So in desperation, I have today been online to do my own research. In view of my history of being somewhat 'riddled with Endometriosis', I searched and found a number of articles on Bowel Endometriosis (surprise!). My symptoms would seem to fit the picture. However, before heading back to my doctor with my findings (and looking silly), I would very much appreciate one of your specialist's opinion.
Thank you kindly. XXXXXXX XXXXXXX

Dear Dr. XXXXXXX

Thanks for getting back to me. After our last discussion, I couldn't see how to get back to you as I had posted a review which seemed to close off access back to you.
What led me to dig further was that my husband was asking me, "What does the pain FEEL like?" I had to tell him that, aside from the abdominal cramping, I also sometimes had pain which, ridiculous though it may sound, I could only liken to the old menstrual cramps. However - thanks for your words of comfort. I am pleased to hear that it is unlikely I fall within that 5% range of postmenopausal women who have had a hysterectomy and castration.
Per your good advice I already have it in mind to speak to my doctor about a clinical assessment of the perineum to see if the anal fissure is active and will also mention your suggestion for a clinical examination and evaluation. I see him on September 11. I am still sticking to my strict fiber/water diet and taking Dicetel for the cramps and bloating, and have started implementing your other suggestions. I am continuing to pass just a few soft stools but I am persevering.
Thanks again, Dr. XXXXXXX XXXXXXX

Dr. XXXXXXX

How can I write to you directly after closing the discussion? There must be something on the site that I am missing.

Also, it occurred to me that you may have been interested in what internet sites I was researching. Two of them (to name but a few) are the following:

http://www.nezhat.org/endometriosis/bowel-blader-endometriosis.php
and http://www.centerforendo.com/articles/bowel.htm

Enjoy your day.

Regards, XXXXXXX

Thanks again Dr. XXXXXXX I will definitely let you know how I fare with the Physician on the 11th.

Kind regards,
XXXXXXX