Did you know that scientists are yet to determine what causes this condition? The scientists have only advanced possible theories as they try to identify the cause of the disease. Two to Ten Percent of the women of childbearing age struggle with the condition. They experience so much pain that it impedes their sexual and overall well-being.
Despite there being no specific causes of the disease, there are Obstetrics and Gynecologist experts who treat endometriosis McDonough. This article will teach some of the essential facts about endometriosis.
What is Endometriosis?
If you are a female with a reproductive system, you can suffer from this condition. The ovary has a lining known as the endometrium. If this lining develops in other regions other than the ovaries, you will have developed the disease. Since every month, the ovaries shed the endometrium if you have not conceived, the lining in other areas also responds in the same manner.
The endometrium outside the ovaries becomes inflamed and eventually bleeds, causing great pain. If you do not seek immediate medical intervention, the blood released gets locked in and develops into adhesions and scar tissue, worsening your pain. The pain causes you not to live your life normally.
Major Symptoms of Endometriosis
If you experience the symptoms described below, you are likely suffering from the condition. The primary symptoms include very painful menstruation. The level of cramping heightens, and cramping can start before the actual menstruation and continue even after the periods. In addition to the cramping, you might experience lower back and abdominal pain. Besides, you might experience excessive bleeding during the menstrual cycle. At times the bleeding occurs between periods which is alarming.
Most women who are struggling with endometriosis experience painful intercourse. They hardly enjoy their sexual life because of the pain. During your periods, you might often experience pain when urinating or passing stool. Also, conceiving when you have this condition becomes an uphill task because it causes infertility.
Diagnosing the Condition
If you have the above symptoms and visit a doctor, they will take down your history and recommend further evaluations. The obstetric gynecologist can look into your vagina and cervix using a speculum and light during the physical examination.
The specialist will then send you to the laboratory for transvaginal ultrasound or abdominal ultrasound. A laparoscopy test allows the specialist to sight endometriosis directly. Laparoscopy is a minor surgical procedure that diagnoses and removes the tissues.
Treatment Options
The obstetrics gynecologist discusses the different treatment options with you. The treatment option depends on whether you want to bear children in the future and the stage of your endometriosis. The following are treatment options available;
- Laparoscopy is a minor surgical procedure that removes the growths.
- Laparotomy is a major surgical procedure that removes the endometrium.
- Hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus.
- Painkillers
- Hormone therapy
Endometriosis is an idiopathic condition that can only be managed but not cured. Also, the painful condition affects women of childbearing age, causing them to have a poor quality of life. Although it mostly goes undiagnosed, having regular gynecological check-ups can detect its onset. The Ideal Gynecology LLC, located in Georgia, has a specialist who diagnoses and treats endometriosis. Book your appointment today and get the necessary treatment.
