Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a gynecological condition that occurs when you have endometrial-like growths outside the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus. These growths may be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or outer wall of the uterus.

Every month your endometrium grows in anticipation of pregnancy. When you don't get pregnant, your body sheds the endometrial lining through your period.

With endometriosis, the external endometrial growths grow and shed just like the endometrial lining in the uterus. However, the tissue has nowhere to go, causing inflammation, swelling, and pain, leading to scarring and adhesions. 

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. The pain may occur during your period, sexual intercourse, or all the time. Some women may even have pain when urinating or having a bowel movement.

Pelvic pain is a common symptom of many conditions that affect women, making it harder to get an endometriosis diagnosis. Many women may not realize they have endometriosis until they see their gynecologist for an infertility workup.

What happens during an endometriosis consultation?

The team at Roswell ObGyn, LLC conducts an in-depth consultation when you come in with concerns about endometriosis. They ask detailed questions about your symptoms, menstrual cycle, and medical and gynecological history.

Your provider completes a physical and pelvic exam and may complete an in-office ultrasound test to evaluate your reproductive organs, looking for signs of the external endometrial growths. 

Though the team can make a preliminary diagnosis after a physical exam, the only way to diagnose endometriosis is by performing a diagnostic laparoscopy. 

What are the treatments for endometriosis?

The team at Roswell ObGyn, LLC creates a personalized treatment plan for endometriosis based on the severity of your symptoms, the extent of your growths, and your current and future plans for pregnancy.

The team may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medication for pain control. They may also prescribe hormonal medication to minimize the growing and shedding of endometrial-like growths. 

The team may recommend minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery to remove the growths from your reproductive organs if they're interfering with your ability to get pregnant.

Currently, there's no cure for endometriosis, but the team at Roswell ObGyn, LLC can help you manage the symptoms. Call the office today or use the online booking button to make your consultation.