What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines your uterus grows outside of the uterus. These endometrial adhesions typically grow around the reproductive organs and can be found on:
- Ovaries
- Fallopian tubes
- Outer surface of the uterus, bladder, rectum, and intestines
- Peritoneum
These adhesions often lead to inflammation, bleeding, scarring, and pain. Severe cases of endometriosis can cause infertility.
There is no known cause of endometriosis, but many women experience it. Florida Woman Care has providers with extensive experience treating endometriosis, so you can find the high-quality care you need with our team.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
The most common symptom of endometriosis is long-term pelvic pain just before and during your period. You may also experience pain during sex, urination, or bowel movements. Your symptoms may also include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea, Constipation, and Bloating during your period
- Spotting between periods
Your provider is here to listen. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist. We will treat you with compassion and do our best to find the cause.
Diagnosing Endometriosis
Your gynecologist can diagnose endometriosis. The first step is reporting your symptoms during an in-person or telehealth appointment with your Florida Woman Care provider. Your provider will likely ask you questions about your medical history and recommend a pelvic exam for adhesions. If your provider needs additional information, they may recommend imaging, like an ultrasound or MRI.
Laparoscopic surgery is required for a definitive diagnosis. Your provider will look around inside your abdomen for signs of endometrial tissue. If they find any growths or adhesions, they will remove and biopsy it to determine what it is.
Surgery may produce some anxiety, but your provider is here to keep you comfortable and cared for every step of the way. Your care will always be of the highest quality with your Florida Woman Care provider.
Can My Endometriosis Be Treated?
There are several treatment options available for endometriosis. Your provider can help you select one that fits your reproductive life goals and addresses your symptoms.
Hormone medications, including some birth control methods, can reduce the size of the adhesions and give you lighter, less painful periods.
Pain medication, including over-the-counter options, can help you manage the chronic pelvic pain that occurs during menstruation and the rest of your cycle.
Surgery is also an option for those with severe endometriosis. A minimally invasive procedure like a laparoscopy can help your provider identify and remove endometrial adhesions. The removal of adhesions should help reduce pain, bleeding, and other endometriosis symptoms. A hysterectomy is also an option for severe endometriosis in women who are not interested in having children or growing their family further.
Explore the Possibility of Endometriosis with Your Provider
If you’re struggling with chronic pelvic pain, spotting, and heavy menstrual bleeding, you may have endometriosis. Your provider at Florida Woman Care can help you manage this condition and the symptoms that come with it so you can feel better and get back to living your life. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.