Endometriosis: Diagnosis and Treatment

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to tissue inside the uterus grows in other areas of the pelvis. Endometriosis can lead to pain and infertility. The cause for this tissue growth is unknown, but some possible risk factors are irregular menstrual flow, genetics and hormone imbalance.

Although endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women during the childbearing years, many don't receive proper diagnosis or treatment. This condition not only impacts physical health, but can also interfere with day-to-day life. Women experiencing symptoms linked to endometriosis shouldn't hesitate to find help.

Do you have painful periods? A Beaufort Memorial OB-GYN or gynecologist can help you determine if you have endometriosis and develop a treatment plan. Request an appointment.

Endometriosis Symptoms

Endometriosis is directly affected by changes in estrogen levels. During menstruation, the growths can become inflamed and bleed, causing scar tissue to form. This can lead to the following symptoms:

• Chronic pelvic or lower back pain
• Digestive problems
• Fatigue
• Heavy bleeding
• Infertility
• Pain during or after sex
• Painful menstrual cramps

Diagnosing Endometriosis

During an appointment with your health care provider, you will first discuss any recurrent symptoms and how they affect your quality of life. Your provider may then conduct a pelvic exam to feel for any hardening of tissue or pain near the womb. Imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI exam, may also be necessary to detect any endometrial implants or scar tissue.

The only way to definitively diagnose endometriosis is with a surgical procedure called laparoscopy. During a laparoscopy, a small incision is made near the belly button and an instrument is inserted to allow a gynecologist to see if any endometrial tissue is present. A proper diagnosis can help your health care provider develop a treatment plan.

Treatments for Endometriosis

There is no cure for endometriosis, but women can manage symptoms with the following treatment options:

• Hormone therapy. Birth control pills, progestin and medications known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists can slow the growth of endometrial tissue.
• Pain-relieving medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help with inflammation and discomfort.
• Laparoscopy. If birth control or pain relievers don't alleviate symptoms, or if a woman is trying to conceive, laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial tissue may be recommended. Beaufort Memorial gynecological surgeons perform minimally invasive procedures that involve minimal scarring and less discomfort than traditional surgery.