September 21, 2009

I had what I refer to the "tri-fecta" of female reproductive problems. I have endometriosis, fibroids and adenomyosis. In the past, I had doctors insist that they saw no reason for my chronic pain. It was suggested that the pain was imagined or some form of stress. Some years back, there was another specialist (who will remain nameless), who performed my laparoscopy with excisions. I was told that I was endometriosis free and would not have any more problems. I felt really good for a while, and then slowly, the pain returned. Every month, it was a little bit worse and lasted a little bit longer. I contacted the doctor that did my last surgery and he insisted that my fibroids were causing me the pain and there was no endometriosis. I found this peculiar since when he did my surgery, he refused to remove the fibroids because "they were too small and are not the cause of the pain and to remove them will create unnecessary scar tissue".

I saw several other doctors who either passed me off to other doctors or who wanted to do extensive, unacceptable surgeries. For instance, one told me that my pain was an inguinal hernia and he wanted to go in and sever my nerves. He insisted that this would make the pain more tolerable. Another kept questioning my decision to delay having children, suggesting that now would be a good time to get pregnant (I am in my twenties, unmarried and in school). When I continually refused, he insisted that a hysterectomy was my only other option. When I refused that option, he suggested a surgery for the fibroids, but told me that I would be incapacitated for about 6 weeks. Desperate, I turned to the internet once more and tried to find a doctor that specialized in my situation. I found Dr. Kanayama's website and saw his name appearing repeatedly on other forums and sites.

I did some research on Dr. Kanayama, and after speaking with my parents decided that it was worth speaking with the doctor. Sabrina, the doctor's assistant was really good about getting me in to see the doctor since I had to travel and was working with time deadlines. I was able to see the doctor and felt very comfortable with his knowledge and just his manner in general. I felt like for once, I was being listened to and not just patronized. Leading up to and following the surgery, the doctor was kind enough to take my calls and explain and answer any questions that I had. He reassured me that I was in good hands. I am definitely grateful for the doctor and his staff because they were very supportive and helped me through another very difficult period in my life.

Veronica S.