Are you a female who experiences painful periods or excessive bleeding? If so, you may have endometriosis, a painful disorder where the endometrium, or tissue that lines the inside of your uterus, grows on the outside of your uterus.
March is National Endometriosis Awareness Month and Dr. Angela Maggard, Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN), would like to highlight endometriosis, its symptoms, complications and treatment options during this month.
“Endometriosis affects one in 10 women during their reproductive years,” said Dr. Maggard. “If you have family members with this condition, it greatly increases your chances of being diagnosed.”
Mayo Clinic states the displaced endometrial tissue thickens, breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle as it normally would, but because this displaced tissue has no way to exit your body, it becomes trapped.
According to Mayo Clinic, the primary symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. Other common symptoms include:
•Painful periods
•Pain with intercourse
•Pain with bowel movements or urination
•Excessive bleeding
•Infertility
Unfortunately, the level of pain you experience isn’t the best sign of how severe your endometriosis may be.
“Endometriosis is more than just painful periods. In fact, some women experience no pain,” added Dr. Maggard. “If you have painful periods or pelvic pain between your periods, see your gynecologist and do not be shy about detailing all of your symptoms.”
Diagnosis of endometriosis includes your doctor knowing where your pain occurs and a description of your symptoms and certain tests used. These tests include:
•Pelvis exam
•Ultrasound
•Laparoscopy
“Endometriosis can be treated with medications and surgery and a gynecologist can be an ally for millions of women affected by this serious disease,” Dr. Maggard advised.
To schedule an appointment with a PMC OB/GYN, call 606-430-2207.
Source: Mayo Clinic
