Hello!

I was diagnosed with endometriosis during my first year of marriage, some 17 years ago, when confusing symptoms (pelvic pain, feeling like I had UTIs when I didn't, pain during intercourse, etc.) began to occur. I tried, against my better judgement, the Depo-Provera recommended by my doctor, but stopped after a month or two because it did not feel "right" for me. I was blessed with two pregnancies in the next several years, and two lovely sons and the endo really wasn't much of a problem...occasional pain and heavy periods.

When my youngest son was four or so, I found the symptoms returning and cleaned up my diet and tried to address the thought patterns and emotions that I thought might be contributing to the endo (I used the Louise Hay book to look up what she believes contributes to endo and they all fit me so well is was startling!). A few years of such work, in between family and home responsiblities, and most all the symptoms were gone again.

Then a few months ago, I had a UTI (after a wonderful, amorous weekend with my husband!), but when the UTI was cured, I continued to have urethral pain and irritation on and off. Basically, I feel intermittent urethral pain, that leads to general pelvic soreness, and sometimes feel sort of small, spasmy, rush, as tho' I had a UTI or incontinence. I have been working with a nurse midwife, but she is stumped as to what could be causing it. Two cycles ago, I had a terrible return of the endo during my period (debilitating pelvic pain in the same, familiar spot, nausea) that continued off an on during the rest of my cycle.....but then this last period was normal! It is all so confusing. And now I have the urethral pain again, and am wondering how connected it is with the endo?

Carolyn, I found this place through your very helpful website (and was led there from the yahoo group "endonatural") and wanted to post here as you listed "urethral syndrome" in your glossary of endo terms. I have yet to find much information about it, but think it best describes what I am experiencing. I am hoping to find more information, other women who have experienced it and alternatives healing options for it....I want to stay well away from MDs, if possible, as they tend to want to do invasive diagnostic procedures that can lead to future trouble. Hoping you or someone else can help!

I have read what I could in Christiana Northup's book Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom and intend to begin by cutting out all caffeine (I don't have much as it is) and using castor oil packs, but hope that someone can give me some insight or guidance.

Thanks very much.