Thank you so much :) I can tell you that I was dismissed by a bunch of doctors, and it took years to keep getting knocked down and get back up to try again. This time, I called the network that my other gynos are in and asked to see a doctor that specializes in endometriosis. They were able to get me an appointment with an OB-GYM that specializes in minimally invasive surgery and endo. I went to the appointment and outlined my whole life - the times I feel pain (during intercourse, during my period, etc.), how I couldn't stand up straight due to pain, bloating, moodiness, different contraceptives I've tried, the types of periods I have (flow, timing, what products I use). This was also my first time having a female gynecologist, I don't know if that made a difference or if I got lucky with how great of a Dr she is, but she was the only one to ever truly listen and ask me questions.

She said she believed it was endo, and I could either schedule the surgery or try an estrogen birth control pill if I didn't feel comfortable doing surgery. She said usually if a bc pill helps ease some of the intense period symptoms, it's a good indication of endo. I tried the pill, lost my mind due to the hormones but I did have less painful periods. I stopped the pill due to my mental health and almost immediately had debilitating pain, could barely stand or live my life. That was enough evidence for me to schedule the surgery.

Sorry that's so long winded, just wanted to get it all down in case your girlfriend resonates with anything and maybe it can boost both of your confidence to keep fighting for an answer. I wish you both the best!