Terri Ramsey Beavers When the lining similar to the tissue on the uterus walls grows outside the uterus, it leads to endometriosis: a condition that affects the ovaries and the tissues along the pelvis. With every menstrual cycle, the tissue that leads to endometriosis becomes heavier, breaks and bleeds. When the ovaries are affected by endometriosis, it leads to the development of cysts called endometriomas, which irritate the surrounding tissues. Pain caused by endometriosis can affect your daily living and may lead to severe complications such as infertility. Your trusted endometriosis in Las Vegas specialists, Darin Swainston, MD, FACOG, uses minimally invasive procedures and the latest technology to ensure the best results and quick recovery times.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
When you visit your doctor for diagnosis, the doctor will ask you several questions, including how you feel, the pain’s location, and when the pain started. To diagnose this condition, your doctor may carry out the following:
Pelvic examination
During this examination, your doctor checks for abnormalities such as cysts’ growth and scars in your reproductive organs. However, this test may not be enough to conclude that you do not have endometriosis.
Ultrasound scanning
Ultrasound scanning is a type of test that uses sound waves of high frequency to make a picture of your internal organs in this procedure; your doctor puts a device across your abdomen or inside the vagina to check for the signs of endometriosis. Although it does not tell whether you have endometriosis, it will show your doctor the presence of cysts, which are signs of the condition.
Laparoscopy
In this procedure, the doctor injects you with an anesthetic, makes a small incision near your belly button, and then inserts a tool to check any signs of endometriosis.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
This type of test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to make comprehensive images of the internal organs and tissues. It shows the size and location of endometriosis and helps prepare your doctor for surgery.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
- Painful cramps during menstruation may be accompanied by lower back pain and abdominal pain
- Painful during or after sexual intercourse
- Pain during urination or bowel movements
- Heavy and irregular bleeding
- Infertility
- You may experience other symptoms such as mood swings, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, and other symptoms
What are the treatment options for endometriosis?
This condition is usually solved through surgery or medication. The type of treatment you choose will be between you and your doctor, depending on your needs. Doctors recommend a generally conservative treatment and opt for surgery if it fails. Treatment options include pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and hormonal therapy to control hormones’ rising and falling. This fertility treatment involves stimulating the ovaries to produce eggs and a hysterectomy to remove the uterus and remove ovaries (oophorectomy).
It is crucial to find the right doctor who is skilled and makes you feel comfortable. After the treatment, your doctor will place you in the recovery room to check your progress within a few hours. If the process was complicated, you might be required to stay in the hospital. Your doctor will give you instructions which should be followed. It would help if you avoided strenuous work or anything that strains your muscles, such as lifting and pulling heavy objects. The time for your recovery varies and will depend on the condition. Schedule your consultation for diagnosis and treatment.