Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that makes up the uterine lining — or endometrium — grows outside of the uterus. This condition affects around 10% of reproductive-age women, and many may not even be aware of it.
For expert diagnosis and treatment, turn to board-certified gynecologist Cynthia McNally, MD, and our team at Evergreen Women’s Health. We offer personalized, comprehensive care to help you find relief and address potential complications.
Could your pelvic pain and heavy periods be a sign of endometriosis? Here, we describe the common symptoms, the diagnostic process, and the range of modern treatment options available.
With this condition, endometrial tissue may grow on the outer surface of the uterus, in the pelvic cavity, or it may appear in or on surrounding organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, rectum, or bladder. In rare cases, it can even grow in more distant organs, including the heart or lungs.
Like the normal uterine lining, the misplaced tissue builds up and attempts to shed with monthly hormonal fluctuations. But with nowhere to exit the body, this trapped material causes irritation and inflammation, resulting in scar tissue that can adhere to nearby organs and tissues.
Approximately 30% of women with endometriosis have no noticeable symptoms. But for others, symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
In addition to the physical effects, endometriosis can also impact your mental and emotional well-being. While the psychological stress of living with chronic pain and potential fertility issues can take a toll, studies suggest there may be a genetic link between endometriosis and conditions like depression and anxiety.
Because the symptoms of endometriosis may be mild or overlooked as period pain, many women go years without a proper diagnosis. Often, the condition remains undiagnosed until investigations into infertility or other issues reveal it.
If you suspect endometriosis, our team begins by reviewing your medical history and discussing your symptoms in detail. We may also perform a pelvic exam to check for signs like abdominal tenderness or swelling.
Imaging tests such as ultrasound and MRI can help us rule out other conditions like fibroids or ovarian cysts, but they’re not as effective for identifying endometriosis. A conclusive diagnosis requires laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery that allows us to see into the pelvic cavity and take a tissue sample to confirm the condition.
Your endometriosis treatment plan depends on several factors, including the severity of your symptoms, the extent of scar tissue or adhesion, and your pregnancy plans. For most women, treatments focus on easing pain, reducing heavy bleeding, and improving fertility.
Hormonal birth control and other hormone therapies can slow the growth of endometrial tissue by minimizing fluctuations in estrogen. Combined with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, these medications are often the first choice for managing pain and heavy bleeding, particularly if you’re not actively trying to conceive.
For more severe endometriosis, we may recommend laparoscopic excision surgery to remove problematic tissue. This procedure can effectively relieve pain and may increase your chances of natural pregnancy. If you’re finished having kids, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and sometimes ovaries) offers a definitive resolution to symptoms.
You don’t have to live with pelvic pain and heavy bleeding that disrupts your life each month. Schedule a consultation at Evergreen Women’s Health in Vancouver, Washington, to find effective solutions that work for you.
