Endometriosis

What is Endometriosis?

The endometrium is the tissue that normally grows inside your uterus and sheds during your menstrual period. When you have endometriosis, this tissue starts developing outside your uterus, often affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. It’s possible for endometrial tissue to grow in other parts of the body beyond the pelvic area, but this is rare.

The displaced endometrium continues to act like it normally would, growing and shedding with the menstrual cycle. However, since there’s no way for it to leave the body, this tissue becomes trapped, which can cause more serious problems.

What are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?

The main symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, which tends to worsen during your menstrual period. Other common signs and symptoms include:

• Painful sex
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Painful urination or bowel movements
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Digestive problems, such as diarrhea and constipation

Endometriosis has similar symptoms to other gynecological conditions that cause pelvic pain, such as ovarian cysts and pelvic inflammatory disease. The best way to find out if you have endometriosis is to discuss your concerns with the expert OB/GYNs at Woodglen Medical Group.

What are the Risk Factors for Endometriosis?

Endometriosis affects over 11% of women ages 15-44. Although this condition can occur at any age, it’s most common among women in their 30s and 40s. Certain factors may increase your risk of getting endometriosis, such as:

• A family history of endometriosis
• Having never had children
• Menstrual cycles that last less than 27 days
• Periods that last more than seven days

Endometriosis symptoms typically end after menopause, unless you receive hormone replacement therapy.

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed and Treated?

First, your expert provider at Woodglen Medical Group performs a physical exam and reviews your medical history. They may also take an ultrasound to check for signs of endometriosis.

Your doctor then develops an individualized treatment plan based on your unique needs. If you’re not currently trying to get pregnant, hormonal birth control is generally the first step in endometriosis treatment. If you do want to get pregnant, your OB/GYN at Woodglen Medical Group may prescribe a different hormonal medicine.

If your condition is severe or doesn’t improve with noninvasive treatment, your doctor may recommend surgery.

If you think you have endometriosis, call or book an appointment online for expert care.