Endometriosis is a condition that occurs in women when the inner uterus lining starts to grow outside of the uterus, often behind the uterus, on the bowels, or on the bladder. Endometriosis is most commonly diagnosed among women in their 30s and 40s, but the onset of the condition typically starts during reproductive years.
Your OBGYN can help diagnose your symptoms as endometriosis and determine the best treatment for you.
The most common symptoms that women experience if they have endometriosis include pain, spotting in between periods, heavy periods, infertility, and digestive problems. Not all women experience symptoms, but pain is the most common symptom and can be:
Pain from Endometriosis is caused by the benign growth of the endometrial lining. These growths bleed in the same way as your uterus during your period. Other problems can result such as your fallopian tubes being blocked, inflammation, and scar tissue around your uterus, intestines, or bladder.
In addition to discussing your symptoms with your gynecologist, he or she may suggest another exam to diagnosis endometriosis. During a pelvic exam, your doctor may be able to feel for large cysts or scars behind your uterus. An ultrasound or MRI may also be done to check for ovarian cysts.
Surgery is the only way to confirm that you have endometriosis. Your OBGYN may perform a laparoscopic procedure to see or biopsy the endometriosis growths.
Since there is no cure for endometriosis, talk with your doctor about your situation and the best symptoms management options for you.
If you're experiencing severe pain related to your period, are having problems with infertility, and suffer from heavy periods, schedule an appointment to talk with your doctor at OBGYN Associates of North Jersey about endometriosis.
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