Endometriosis

Our Approach

To make a diagnosis, your doctor will likely examine the pelvic area to feel for signs of endometriosis. Ultrasound, to capture images of the inside of your body, is another tool that may be used to help diagnose endometriosis. In some cases, your doctor may want to perform a surgical procedure called a laparoscopy, and take samples of tissue for examination. A clear diagnosis allows your doctor to determine the best treatment options.

There are ways to treat symptoms of endometriosis, but there is no cure. Medicines used to manage symptoms can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, progestins, gonadotropin-releasing hormone and danocrine. A doctor might consider surgery in certain cases, such as when the condition is severe, or the patient is trying to become pregnant.

What is endometriosis?

The inner lining of the uterus - the endometrium - is shed through the vagina during a menstrual period. In some women, pieces of the endometrium develop outside the uterus in a condition called endometriosis. These pieces can develop on the vagina, fallopian tubes, ovaries, intestine or peritoneum (the membrane that lines the abdominal and pelvic cavities). Although rare, this endometrial tissue can even develop outside of the pelvic area. Like normal endometrial tissue, the displaced tissue bleeds with each menstrual cycle. Unlike normal endometrial tissue, it has no way of leaving the body. Cysts and irritation may occur as a result.

Who is at risk for endometriosis?

Women between 25 and 40 years of age are most at risk for endometriosis.

Women who have never given birth are more at risk. Younger women can also get endometriosis, although it is less common. In fact, any woman who experiences menstrual periods can develop the condition. The cause is unknown.

Symptoms of endometriosis

Pain in the pelvic area is the main symptom of endometriosis, especially pain during menstruation that is worse than normal. Menstrual pain that becomes worse over time is also typical of endometriosis. Women with endometriosis also complain of heavy periods, bleeding between periods, pain during or after sex, and pain while urinating or moving bowels. Endometriosis can also prevent a woman from becoming pregnant.

Other common signs and symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Nausea

These symptoms may be worse during menstruation.

The intensity of symptoms is different for every individual. In fact, some women with endometriosis do not experience any symptoms.