Overview
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue from the inner lining if the uterus spreads outside the uterus. It causes inflammation in the bleeding tissue which results in excessive pain during periods.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
- Abnormal menstrual bleeding: You may experience occasional heavy periods (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (menometrorrhagia)
- Pelvic pain: Pelvic pain and cramping may begin before your period and extend several days into your period. You may also have lower back and abdominal pain
- Pain during or after sex: Pain during or after sex is common with endometriosis
- Pain with urination or bowel movements
Special tests to diagnose Endometriosis
The tests used to help diagnose endometriosis are:
- Laparoscopy – a medical instrument with a video camera attached is used to examine your uterus
- Ultrasound – instrument which uses sound waves to create a video image
- Colonoscopy – a medical instrument with a video camera attached is used to examine your bowel. This is done if it is thought that the endometriosis could also be affecting your bowel.
Treatment
Treatment for endometriosis depends on a number of factors including:
- The severity of symptoms
- The extent of the endometriosis
- The woman’s age and
- Her outcome requirements (e.g. reduction in pain, improved fertility)
No treatment can absolutely prevent endometriosis from recurring but a combination of regular medical follow-up, hormone medication and/or surgery can control the condition. Having a baby may improve the condition. While endometriosis is suppressed during pregnancy, symptoms may recur in time, even as early as a few months after giving birth. Medical treatment is essential for this condition. Hormones can usually treat endometriosis, sometimes surgery may be indicated. We perform screening tests for women and provide individualized treatment plans to relieve the symptoms.