Endometriosis: Symptoms and Treatments
Endometriosis is a condition in which cells similar to those of the lining of your uterus abnormally grow elsewhere in your body. It affects approximately 200 million women worldwide and can cause pain, infertility, and problems with intimacy.
The pattern of your symptoms and a physical exam can sometimes give Dr. Shilad enough information to diagnose endometriosis, but laparoscopic surgery and biopsy is the only way to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging tests are inconclusive, and no blood test can detect the condition.
Pain and irregular bleeding are sometimes manageable with medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) and ones that control your hormones like the pill, progestins, and androgens. Dr. Shilad may recommend surgery when your symptoms are severe or do not respond well to noninvasive therapies.
If you have endometriosis or suspect that you do, seek treatment from a highly regarded expert such as Dr. Shilad.