Endometriosis is a common problem among women that can result is painful life altering symptoms. After over 20 years of experience, Women’s Health of the Emerald Coast can assist you in finding a solution.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which the type of tissue that forms the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) is found outside the uterus.
What Problems Does It Cause?
Endometriosis implants respond to changes in estrogen, a female hormone. The implants may grow and bleed like the uterine lining does during the menstrual cycle. Surrounding tissue can become irritated, inflamed, and swollen. The breakdown and bleeding of this tissue each month also can cause scar tissue, called adhesions, to form. Sometimes adhesions can cause organs to stick together. The bleeding, inflammation, and scarring can cause pain, especially before and during menstruation.
Is There a Link Between Endometriosis and Infertility?
Almost 40% of women with infertility have endometriosis. Inflammation from endometriosis may damage the sperm or egg or interfere with their movement through the fallopian tubes and uterus. In severe cases of endometriosis, the fallopian tubes may be blocked by adhesions or scar tissue.
With Endometriosis, What Symptoms Are Experienced?
The most common symptom of endometriosis is chronic (long-term) pelvic pain, especially just before and during the menstrual period. Pain also may occur during sex. If endometriosis is present on the bowel, pain during bowel movements can occur. If it affects the bladder, pain may be felt during urination. Heavy menstrual bleeding is another symptom of endometriosis. Many women with endometriosis have no symptoms.
How Do You Diagnose Endometriosis?
A health care provider first may do a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. However, the only way to tell for sure that you have endometriosis is through a surgical procedure called laparoscopy. Sometimes a small amount of tissue is removed during the procedure. This is called a biopsy.
What Are The Treatment Options for Endometriosis?
Once a formal diagnoses is made by your urogynecologist, your lifestyle desires and wishes will be taken into effect to choose a treatment plan for you. There are medications, pain management and minimally invasive fertility saving surgeries to look at. At a last resort a hysterectomy may be looked as an option.
Courtesy of acog.org