Combination Surgery and Drugs

In a combined therapy, medications are used in combination with surgery. For example, Danazol (danocrine) is taken for six weeks before surgery to shrink endometrial tissue and ease its surgical removal. Because the surgery follows the hormonal treatment, it's possible to get rid of adhesions formed while the hormone heals the disease. Following surgical removal of a moderate amount of endometriotic tissue, your doctor may prescribe birth control pills that contain the two female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, to be taken continuously for up to nine months. Together, they stimulate the ovaries to release and sex drive changes. Some women gain weight; some may experience vaginal dryness, bloating, and sporadic menstrual bleeding. Levels of HDL (the good cholesterol) may fall, but gradually return to normal after treatment is stopped. Cases of high blood pressure and stroke have been reported.