A randomised, double-blind trial evaluating preoperative medical treatment of endometriosis prior to radical laparoscopic excision of disease

This study is looking at whether taking medication for three months before surgery to remove endometriosis can improve the results of the operation. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, causing pain and other problems. Women in this study will be randomly assigned to one of two medications or a placebo (sugar pill) for three months before their laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. Researchers will check whether this improves pain, quality of life, and how easy the operation is to complete. You may be eligible if: - You are a woman under 35 years of age - You are known to have, or suspected to have, endometriosis as the cause of your symptoms - You are willing to take the study medication as directed - You are able to complete questionnaires about pain and quality of life - You are willing to use barrier contraception before surgery You may NOT be eligible if: - There is any suspicion of gynaecological cancer - You have current or chronic pelvic inflammatory disease - You are pregnant or unwilling to use barrier contraception - You have a contraindication to oestrogens (e.g., a history of blood clots) - You are over 35 and currently smoke - You have had a reaction to a GnRH analogue medication in the past - You are unable to give informed consent or attend a 12-month follow-up Talk to your doctor about whether this trial might be right for you.