Is There a Treatment for Endometriosis?

When a medical condition causes so much ongoing pain, it can be difficult to believe there’s any hope. This is especially common in cases of endometriosis, which is a condition still misunderstood. If you’re struggling with abnormal bleeding, painful periods, uncomfortable intercourse, or infertility, our team can help. 

Our team of reproductive specialists at University Reproductive Associates can help you get a diagnosis for endometriosis. We also provide the treatment you deserve to alleviate your symptoms. 

Diagnosing endometriosis 

Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue, which lines the inside of the uterus, begins to grow outside of it. 

During your period, this stray tissue bleeds and sheds into your pelvis, causing irritation and forming scar tissue. Over time, this scar tissue can adhere your organs to each other or to the inner walls of your abdominal and pelvic areas. 

This causes persistent pelvic pain, especially around your menstrual cycle. The severity of your symptoms doesn’t determine the severity of your condition, but it can be an indication. That is why you should always take your pain seriously and consult a specialist if something seems wrong. 

Common symptoms of endometriosis include: 

• Heavy bleeding 
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Severe cramping before, during, and after your period
• Cramping or bleeding during ovulation
• Painful urination or bowel movements
• Pain during sex or after orgasm

Endometriosis can also cause infertility, making it difficult to get pregnant naturally. If you want to get pregnant in the near or distant future, it’s vital that you get treatment now to preserve your fertility and increase those chances. 

Treatments for endometriosis 

Diagnosis of endometriosis can take some time and require several tests. At University Reproductive Associates, we begin with a pelvic exam and ultrasound to seek out any abnormalities in your pelvic area. 

Then, we might use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to look for tissue damage and scarring. If needed, we can also perform laparoscopy — a minimally invasive procedure using a camera and light to search for endometrial tissue inside the body. 

Your specific treatment will depend on the degree of endometrial tissue growth, your symptoms, and whether you want to get pregnant. Hormonal birth control can help suppress symptoms, but severe damage to your pelvic and reproductive organs might require surgical intervention. 

If that is the case, our team will explain your options and potential procedures that could help. These include advanced robotic and laparoscopic methods to perform the surgery with more dexterity and less damage than traditional techniques. 

Don’t endure and ignore difficult periods and endometriosis symptoms. Schedule a consultation with the experts at University Reproductive Associates by calling the location closest to you or request an appointment online.