Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition in which endometrial tissue — normally found inside the uterus — grows in other areas of the pelvic cavity. Endometrial tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, tissues that hold the uterus in place, and on the outer surface of the uterus.

These abnormal tissue growths can cause irregular bleeding, painful menstruation, and fertility problems. Without treatment, endometrial tissue growth may increase, causing scarring and damage to the pelvic area.

What causes endometriosis?

There are no known causes of endometriosis, but there known risk factors that can encourage its development, including:

• Problems with menstrual period flow
• Genetics
• Immune system problems
• Hormonal imbalances
• Prior pelvic surgery, such as a C-section

If you experience symptoms of endometriosis, OBGYN Centers of Memphis will discusses your concerns and risk factors to determine if further testing is needed.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

If we suspects you have endometriosis, we’ll perform a series of tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. These tests include:

Pelvic exam

A pelvic exam includes a normal Pap smear in which a sample of tissue is removed from your cervix to be analyzed for abnormalities.

Imaging

We will perform diagnostic ultrasound imaging to identify areas of abnormal tissue growth or scarring.

Medication

Some medications, such as hormonal birth control, can relieve endometriosis symptoms.

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that removes tissue samples from inside your uterus for analysis.

The type of testing we use to diagnose your condition will depend on your symptoms, overall health, and desired outcome. If you want to have a baby now or in the future, our team at OBGYN Centers of Memphis will perform the least-invasive procedure possible to protect your ability to conceive.

How is endometriosis treated?

While there is no cure for endometriosis, we will provide treatment options to relieve your symptoms. In most cases, the first step in endometriosis treatment is taking medication.

If you don’t want to get pregnant, we may prescribe hormonal birth control to relieve your symptoms. If you want to get pregnant, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist may be prescribed. It will temporarily stop your body from producing the hormones that cause endometrial tissue growth.

In severe cases, OBGYN Centers of Memphis will perform laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial tissue growths.

If you are suffering with endometriosis, book an appointment with OBGYN Centers of Memphis online or over the phone today.