Abnormal bleeding and intense pain aren’t the only negative aspects of endometriosis; it can also lead to infertility. Vonne Jones, MD is a talented and well-trained OB/GYN offering gynecological services at Total Women's Care in Houston. If you need relief for your painful periods or want to protect your fertility, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when the endometrium -- the innermost layer of the uterine lining -- grows outside of the uterus.
This uterine tissue growing outside the uterus is called endometrial implants. It can grow on organs in the pelvis and the outer layer of the uterus.
Endometriosis can make becoming pregnant difficult, and even lead to infertility.
There are four stages of endometriosis that range from mild to severe. These stages depend on the location and size of the endometrial implant, if they’re growing on other organs, and if the ovaries are involved.
Although 3-18% of women have endometriosis, many women are unaware that they have it because symptoms can be minimal or nonexistent. Sometimes the only symptom of endometriosis is infertility.
As endometrial linings grow outside the uterus, they can irritate the pelvis. This irritation can lead to inflammation, causing abnormal bleeding and pain. Additional symptoms include:
Symptoms are often worse around or during menstruation but can occur at any time. Pain can vary in severity from minimal to chronic.
Endometriosis doesn’t guarantee infertility, but it can make becoming pregnancy difficult. Endometriosis can also lead to infertility.
To reach a diagnosis, Dr. Jones might perform a variety of tests, including a pelvic exam, colonoscopy, ultrasound, or laparoscopy. Your treatment depends on several factors such as the extent and severity of your endometrial implants, your age, and your desire to have children.
Various treatments are available for endometriosis, including:
Dr. Jones takes a “total woman” approach to gynecological care. She might recommend lifestyle changes including diet and exercise to ease your symptoms, as well as non-hormonal treatments to reduce inflammation and pain depending on your symptoms.
Call Total Women's Care or schedule an appointment online to learn more about endometriosis diagnosis and treatment options.
