Did you know that approximately 176 million women around the world have endometriosis? That includes more than 10 percent of women in the United States.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that makes up the uterine lining is present outside of the uterus.
Symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Abdominal fullness or cramping
- Abnormal or heavy menstruation
- Constipation
- Discomfort in pelvis, rectum or vagina
- Infertility
- Lower back pain
- Nausea
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Painful menstruation
If you experience any or all of the aforementioned symptoms, it is important to speak with your OB/GYN, who can advise you of next steps.
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
If your doctor believes you may be experiencing endometriosis, he or she will conduct a medical exam, looking for specific signs.
These signs include whether you have a fixed and retroverted uterus, an adnexal mass, lesions of the cervix or posterior fornix that visually appear to be endometriosis, or tenderness, thickening, and/or nodularity of the lining of the uterus.
If your doctor is unable to make a definitive diagnosis based on this medical exam, laparoscopic surgery may be recommended to accurately diagnose and treat the condition.
Getting Pregnant With Endometriosis
While endometriosis can make it difficult for women to get pregnant, that doesn't mean it isn't possible.
Depending on your age and overall health, there are treatment options available, as well as assistance available to help you get pregnant if you are unable to conceive on your own.
Talk with your doctor about your options for conceiving and carrying a pregnancy.
Parkridge East offers services that go above and beyond labor and delivery. Learn more about our comprehensive range of women's health services.
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