What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a painful disorder that describes the growth of your endometrium (uterine lining) outside of your uterus.

Endometrial tissue can grow on your fallopian tubes, ovaries, and other pelvic organs. This tissue continues to act like it normally does – thickening and breaking down each month during your menstrual cycle.

While the underlying cause of endometriosis isn’t well understood, you may be at a higher risk for the condition if you:

• Shorter cycles (less than 27 days)
• Started your period at a young age
• Have a family history of endometriosis
• Have underlying immune system disorders

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

A hallmark symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain that tends to worsen during your period. You may also experience:

• Excessive bleeding
• Bleeding between periods
• Severe menstrual cramps
• Pain during sex

If you have any of these issues or don’t become pregnant after a year of having unprotected sex, you should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Advanced Women’s Healthcare of Waxahachie.

How is endometriosis treated?

There are typically two treatment options for endometriosis - medications and surgery.

The providers at Advanced Women’s Healthcare of Waxahachie may initially recommend various hormonal treatments, including low-dose birth control to suppress the growth of endometrial tissue. The providers can also recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to reduce pelvic pain and cramping.

If you have severe pain or infertility complications, they may recommend surgery using the da Vinci robotic system. This minimally invasive procedure allows the surgeons to see the pelvic tissue at a higher magnification, and increased visibility means that more endometriosis can be removed than through traditional laparoscopic methods.  

When you have severe endometriosis and have completed your family plan, the Advanced Women’s Healthcare of Waxahachie providers may suggest a hysterectomy to remove your uterus for a more definitive treatment.

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for endometriosis symptoms, call Advanced Women’s Healthcare of Waxahachie or request an appointment online today.