Legacy Women's Health

Endometriosis

Understanding endometriosis symptoms and the treatment options

Endometriosis affects more than 6.5 million women in the United States. It is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. These “lesions” are often found on or around the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowels and bladder, but can also spread outside the pelvic region. Causing heavy periods and severe pelvic pain, it can negatively affect a woman’s quality of life. Our San Antonio OBGYNs want women to know that early diagnosis and treatment of symptoms can reduce discomfort and minimize the impact on their health.

Heavy periods and pain are common symptoms

The most common symptoms are heavy periods, pelvic pain and painful menstrual cramps. Often affected by the location of the lesions, other symptoms include painful sexual intercourse, bowel movements or urination. Women can experience bleeding between periods, diarrhea or constipation, and infertility.

Some women with endometriosis do not experience symptoms and only become aware that they have the condition when they try to become pregnant or have a medical procedure.

Who gets endometriosis?

Most common in women in their 30s and 40s, the condition can affect anyone with a menstrual cycle. Its cause is unknown, but there are related risk factors.

  • Heavy periods
  • More than seven days of bleeding during your menstrual cycle
  • A menstrual cycle shorter than 27 days
  • A mother, aunt or sister with endometriosis
  • Never given birth
  • Began menstruating early
  • Went through menopause late

How your OBGYN makes the diagnosis

Your doctor will take a medical history to learn about your health and symptoms.

The OBGYN will perform a pelvic exam to feel for cysts or adhesions. Your doctor may perform an ultrasound to provide images of your pelvic organs.

A laparoscopy may be done to see inside the pelvis using a long, thin tube with a camera and light on the end, called a laparoscope. It is inserted through a small incision near the belly button and is the most definitive way to make a diagnosis.

Treatment to improve your quality of life

Treatments address symptoms and can improve a woman’s quality of life, but do not cure the condition. Our San Antonio OBGYNs personalize treatment plans based on each woman’s symptoms, stage of life, and desire to have children.

  • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relievers or prescription pain medication decrease the related pain.
  • Hormone therapy stops the ovaries from making hormones and may slow the growth of lesions.
  • Surgery to remove lesions is an option for more advanced cases. Additional treatments may be necessary in the future.
  • In the most severe cases, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and ovaries) may be considered.
  • If the condition is interfering with your ability to become pregnant, your treatment plan will include efforts to improve fertility.

Endometriosis can affect your daily life, but there are options available that can improve it. Our San Antonio OBGYNs will develop the best treatment plan for you and your symptoms. Contact Legacy Women’s Health for an appointment.