Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

The endometrium is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus. Endometriosis occurs when tissue like the endometrium grows outside your uterus. 

Just like healthy endometrium tissue, it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. However, this tissue has no way to exit the body, and it becomes trapped.  

Endometriosis is often painful, especially during menstrual periods. When it involves the ovaries, it can cause scar tissue and adhesions, which causes organs and pelvic tissue to stick to each other.

 The team at Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC, treat endometriosis using a combination of conventional medicines and alternative therapies.

What are symptoms of endometriosis?

A common sign of endometriosis is pelvic pain. However, it’s often accompanied by other symptoms, including:

• Fertility issues
• Heavy bleeding during and between periods
• Lower abdominal and back pain
• Pain during and after intercourse
• Painful, often excruciating, periods
• Severe cramping
• Uncomfortable bowel movements

Meanwhile, some people have no symptoms at all. It’s important you schedule annual gynecological exams with your provider.

What causes endometriosis?

There’s no one cause of endometriosis, but medical professionals explore several explanations, including:

Surgical scarring

After a uterine surgery, like a hysterectomy or C-section, endometrial cells can attach to the scarring from the incision.

Autoimmune disease

Immune system disorders prevent the body from recognizing and destroying endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus.

Retrograde menstruation 

In retrograde menstruation, menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows into the pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body. The endometrial cells stick to the pelvic walls and organs, where they thicken and bleed every menstrual cycle, making the condition worse.

Endometrial cell transport

Blood vessels and the lymphatic system can carry endometrial cells to other parts of the body where they stick to tissues and organs 

The providers at Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC, identify why you have developed endometriosis, and aim to treat it and prevent it from happening again.

How do you treat endometriosis?

Your provider recommends treatment depending on how advanced your condition is and whether you hope to become pregnant. It can include:

• Pain medication
• Hormone therapy
• Conservative surgery (preserving the uterus and ovaries)
• Fertility treatments
• Hysterectomy
• Home remedies
• Alternative medicines

When you partner with Advanced Obstetrics & Gynecology, LLC, you receive exceptional patient care from highly skilled professionals. Call the office to schedule an appointment or book online today.