Endometriosis Q & A

 

What is endometriosis?

 

Endometriosis is a condition causing your uterine lining to grow outside the uterus, often on other female organs or parts of your body. This extra tissue growth can cause symptoms severe enough to detract from your quality of life significantly.

 

What are the signs of endometriosis?

 

While you may not show any signs of endometriosis, you could experience some or all of the following:

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• Severe pelvic pain during periods

• Pelvic pain during sex or ovulation

• Heavy menstrual bleeding

• Bleeding between periods

• Long periods, often 7-10 days or more

• Difficulty conceiving a baby

 

What are the risk factors for endometriosis?

 

Experts have indicated that several risk factors could play a role in your risk of receiving an endometriosis diagnosis, including:

 

Family history

 

The primary risk factor for endometriosis is family history. If other women in your family, particularly close relatives like your mom or sister, have endometriosis, you're at a higher risk. While you can't control this risk factor, you can be aware of it so you can seek treatment as soon as you notice endometriosis symptoms.

 

Younger age

 

Endometriosis is rare in postmenopausal women and commonly occurs in your 20s and 30s.

 

Immune system problems

 

Immune system problems may also increase your risk of endometriosis because your body can’t identify endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Instead of destroying the stray tissue, your body allows it to implant and cause problems.

 

What is the treatment for endometriosis?

 

Dr. Lori usually starts with the most conservative treatments and then alters your treatment plan based on your body’s response. For example, lifestyle changes like adopting an anti-inflammatory diet and drinking less alcohol may provide symptom relief. She may also prescribe hormone therapy, either oral or implant form.

When minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is the best option, Dr. Lori removes the endometrial growth from your uterus and other female organs.

 

If Dr. Lori has recommended NovaSure® endometrial ablation, she removes the lining of the uterus to stop excessive bleeding. NovaSure can be a good option for heavy bleeding after you’re finished having children.

 

If you're trying to manage the symptoms of endometriosis and want relief, Dr. Lori can help. She creates a treatment plan just for you.