What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a women’s health condition that involves the tissue that normally grows within your uterus and sheds during your menstrual period. This tissue, called endometrium, starts to grow outside the uterus when you have endometriosis. Endometriosis may cause severe pelvic pain and can make it difficult to get pregnant.
Endometriosis may affect the following organs:
- Ovaries
- Fallopian tubes
- Outer surface of your uterus
- Pelvic lining
- Non-reproductive organs such as your bladder and intestines
Who gets endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common gynecologic disorder that affects about 11% of American women aged 15-44. This condition occurs more frequently in women in their 30s and 40s.
Factors that may increase your chances of getting endometriosis include:
- A family member with endometriosis
- Having never had children
- Menstrual cycles of 27 days or less
- Menstrual periods that last longer than seven days
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, which may be chronic or intense. Pelvic pain may worsen just before or during your menstrual period.
Other symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Painful sex
- Painful urination or bowel movements
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Severe period cramps
- Difficulty getting pregnant
How is endometriosis related to infertility?
Impaired fertility is the main complication of endometriosis. About 40% of women who experience infertility also suffer from endometriosis.
If you want to have a baby, don’t give up hope. Many women with mild to moderate endometriosis still have successful pregnancies and births. However, it may be more difficult to get pregnant if you have endometriosis.
Talk to your doctor at Capital Women’s Care about your concerns with pregnancy and endometriosis.
How does an OB/GYN diagnose and treat endometriosis?
First, your doctor at Capital Women’s Care performs a pelvic exam and asks questions about your menstrual cycle. If she suspects endometriosis, your doctor may suggest additional tests such as an ultrasound or laparoscopy.
If you have endometriosis, your doctor discusses the best treatment options depending on your condition and symptoms. Treatment may include medication management or surgery.
In severe cases that require surgery, the doctors at Capital Women’s Care practice minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy. A laparoscopic procedure uses slender instruments through small incisions.
If you need relief from painful symptoms of endometriosis, call Capital Women’s Care or book an appointment online today.
