These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Stories about those who chose to use hormone therapy to treat endometriosis

Maria, age 45: The pain before and during my periods was so bad, I couldn't exercise. I am an active person, and the pain was really getting me down. I have had endometriosis for years and have tried ibuprofen and other medications I could get at the drugstore, but they were not helping anymore. My doctor said taking birth control pills might help me. She said that also taking ibuprofen around the time of my period could really help. After a couple of months, I noticed enough of an improvement that I could do everything I used to. I'm especially happy that I can use this treatment for a long time, unlike other hormone therapies like Lupron.

Hannah, age 29: I was surprised when my doctor told me endometriosis could be the cause of the pain I was having with my periods. I had never heard of endometriosis before. He explained what it was and told me about the treatments I could try. Taking birth control pills didn't help, and my doctor said a medication called Lupron might stop the pain, though I could only take it for a few months. Treatment with Lupron worked. I hardly have any pain now, and taking a little estrogen for add-back therapy controlled the hot flashes without feeding the endometriosis.

Stories about those who chose not to use hormone therapy to treat endometriosis

Kathleen, age 38: I first noticed that my periods were becoming painful about a year ago. I wasn't too concerned, but I discussed the pain with my doctor when I went for a Pap smear. My exam and Pap smear were fine. My doctor said that endometriosis could be the cause of my pain. Since my mom and an older sister have had endometriosis, I wasn't too surprised. My doctor talked to me about my options. She told me that using ibuprofen, such as Advil or Motrin, might help my pain. Now I start taking ibuprofen the day before my period begins. It really helps relieve my pain. As long as ibuprofen helps my pain, I will wait before I try other treatment for my endometriosis.

Nancy, age 40: My periods were really painful about 5 years ago. I went to my doctor, and he asked a lot of questions about my periods and did a pelvic exam and some tests. When all the tests came back normal, he said endometriosis might be the cause of my pain. I asked if waiting a few months to decide about treatment would be dangerous. He said waiting would be fine. After a few months, the pain eased up. I am glad I decided to wait and see.