Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a women’s health condition that causes tissue from the uterus to grow in areas of your body that it shouldn’t. Often painful, the displaced endometrial tissues most commonly affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue lining your pelvis. 

During your menstrual cycle, the endometrial tissue thickens and breaks down, just as it would when located in your uterus, but the tissue becomes trapped as it has no way to exit your body during your period. Endometriosis can irritate and cause scar tissue in your body. 

What symptoms does endometriosis cause?

Pelvic pain is the most common symptom women with endometriosis experience. Pelvic pain may worsen with your period. Other symptoms of endometriosis include: 

• Painful cramps with period
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Painful intercourse or pain after sex
• Vaginal bleeding in between periods
• Fatigue or diarrhea, particularly during your period
• Painful urination 

Endometriosis symptoms are similar to other gynecologic problems, like fibroids, so you’ll need a diagnosis at Advanced Women’s Health Specialists to confirm the source of your symptoms.

How are pelvic pain and endometriosis diagnosed?

To determine whether endometriosis is the cause of your pelvic pain or other symptoms, your provider at Advanced Women’s Health Specialists reviews your medical history, asks you about your symptoms, and performs a pelvic exam. You may also have an ultrasound so the doctor can look for ovarian cysts. 

Your doctor must perform a minimally invasive surgical procedure and take a small amount of tissue for lab testing to know without a doubt your symptoms are caused by endometriosis.

What are the treatments for endometriosis?

If you’re diagnosed with endometriosis, your provider at Advanced Women’s Health Specialists discusses your available treatment options. The chosen treatment depends on the severity of your condition and your overall health. Common endometriosis treatments include: 

• Hormonal therapy, such as birth control
• Endometrial ablation 
• Laparoscopic surgical removal of abnormal endometrial tissue
• Laparoscopic or traditional removal of the uterus and ovaries (hysterectomy)

Women with endometriosis may have difficulty getting pregnant, but many have successful pregnancies after endometriosis treatment. 

For expert endometriosis treatment, call Advanced Women’s Health Specialists or schedule your appointment online today.