Endometriosis Specialist

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition that results when the lining of your uterus (endometrium) starts growing outside of the uterus. This tissue can cover nearby structures, including your fallopian tubes and ovaries, and it continues to function like normal uterine tissue.

This tissue typically thickens and breaks down during each menstrual cycle. However, because it’s outside of the uterus, there’s nowhere for the tissue to go. As a result, you can experience persistent pelvic pain and a variety of other symptoms that can be severe enough to interfere with your life.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

In addition to chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis can cause symptoms like:

• Severe cramping
• Low back pain
• Painful sex
• Bleeding or spotting
• Digestive problems

Because of the excess growth of the endometrium, it may also be difficult for you to become pregnant.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

If you have persistent pelvic pain, the Inspire Ob/Gyn, LLC team offers comprehensive diagnostic care to determine its cause. Initially, your provider performs a pelvic exam to check for cysts or other conditions that may be causing pain.

Imaging tests using ultrasound technology allow your Inspire Ob/Gyn, LLC provider the opportunity to see your internal structures more closely. This test will allow her to identify or rule out endometriosis.

The Inspire Ob/Gyn, LLC doctors also perform on-site laparoscopic surgery, which involves the insertion of slender instruments with an attached light and camera. The camera sends back real-time images of your internal organs to an external monitor, so your provider can more accurately evaluate the severity of your endometriosis.

How is endometriosis treated?

While endometriosis isn't curable, with proper care, your condition can be well-managed. Initially, hormonal birth control may be useful for controlling heavy bleeding and easing pelvic pain.

If you have severe symptoms from endometriosis, or if you are struggling with infertility related to your condition, you may be a candidate for surgery. The Inspire Ob/Gyn, LLC doctors use surgical techniques to remove excess tissue growth to increase your chances for a healthy pregnancy.

You may need hormone therapy following surgery to prevent additional symptoms unless you're trying to become pregnant.

The team continues to monitor your endometriosis symptoms and overall reproductive health through routine exams.

If you have concerns about endometriosis, schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Inspire Ob/Gyn, LLC today using the online booking feature or by calling the office.