What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a disease in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus, called endometrium, grows in other places outside your uterus. Endometriosis most often affects pelvic organs, such as:
- Ovaries and Fallopian tubes
- Outer surface of the uterus
- Tissues lining the pelvis
Rarely, endometrial tissue may spread beyond the pelvic organs, even as far as your lungs or brain. Endometriosis that affects the ovaries may cause cysts, called endometriomas, to develop.
The displaced endometrium continues to behave like it normally would, thickening and shedding with your menstrual cycle. Since it has no way to exit your body, the endometrial tissue becomes trapped.
Who gets endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects about 11% of American women between ages 15-44. Any woman or adolescent who gets menstrual periods can develop endometriosis, but this condition is more common among women in their 30s and 40s.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Pelvic pain, which may be severe, is the primary symptom of endometriosis. Pain may worsen during your period and become progressively more intense over time. Other common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Painful periods
- Painful sex
- Painful urination
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding in between periods
- Digestive problems
Endometriosis can also contribute to infertility, or difficulty getting pregnant. However, many women with endometriosis are able to have successful pregnancies. If you have endometriosis and want to have a baby, talk to Dr. Shoman about treatments to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
How do you diagnose and treat endometriosis?
First, Dr. Shoman performs a physical and pelvic exam and reviews your symptoms and medical history. If he suspects you have endometriosis, he may take an ultrasound imaging test to look for abnormal endometrial tissue.
Then, he recommends the best treatment for your particular condition. If you don’t want to get pregnant, he may prescribe hormonal contraceptives, such as the birth control pill or intrauterine device (IUD), to relieve pain and reduce bleeding.
If you are trying to get pregnant, he may recommend a different hormonal medicine or surgery to remove the endometrial growths. Dr. Shoman is highly skilled in minimally invasive and laparoscopic surgery.
To find relief from endometriosis, call Elite OBGYN, P.C., or book an appointment online today.
