Endometriosis is often characterized by:

• Irregular or  abnormally heavy periods
• Painful intercourse
• Chronic pelvic pain or pain that is associated with menstruation
• Infertility
• Bloating, cramping, and abdominal pain

Causes

The cause of endometriosis is unknown but researchers suspect that it may be caused by retrograde menstruation that pushes endometrial fragments backwards rather than forward through the vagina and cervix.

Treatment

While there is no cure for endometriosis, there are treatments that can relive pain and infertility associated with the condition. The gynecologists at Aracea Women’s Care offer a range of treatments depending on a patient’s symptoms and desires.

Medication

• Hormone therapy to correct hormonal imbalances.  Often administered through birth control pills, patches or rings.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen to ease pain symptoms.

Surgical Options

• Laparoscopy – a minimally invasive procedure to remove or treat endometrial lesions and scar tissue to restore the organs to their normal anatomic position
• Hysterectomy – a surgical procedure that removes the uterus and cervix for severe cases of endometriosis