Endometrial tissue is only supposed to grow in the lining of the uterus, but endometriosis is a condition endometrial cells that spread to other places, like the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or bladder. When this tissue reacts to hormones from the ovaries, it can cause inflammation, pain, and scarring. When this cycle is repeated over time, the pelvic organs can suffer extensive trauma. In addition to being painful, the scar tissue can even fuse your organs together.
Endometriosis
Symptoms of Endometriosis
Do you suffer from particularly painful and heavy menstrual periods? You may be dealing with endometriosis.
- Very painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)
- Chronic pelvic pain and back pain
- Heavy bleeding during periods
- Spotting between periods
- Painful intercourse
- Painful urination or bowel movements
- Bloating
- Infertility
- Anemia
- Fatigue
Endometriosis is most commonly found in women ages 25 to 40 with a family history of the condition. Being overweight and starting your period very young may also put you at higher risk of developing endometriosis. Some studies estimate that up to 11% of the female population may be living with undiagnosed endometriosis. This chronic condition can disrupt your life by causing severe pain, discomfort, and intimacy issues. However, once you know the root cause of these problems, you can begin overcoming them.
While there is no cure for endometriosis, patients have found relief from its symptoms with a variety of helpful treatments. The compassionate staff at Sylacauga OBGYN are here to help you determine the right treatment options for your condition. You know your body best, so when you visit, we take the time to address your concerns and listen to your story. Below we cover some of the endometriosis treatment options offered at Sylacauga OBGYN.
For more information about endometriosis pain relief, contact us now or give us a call at 256-487-7783.
Medications & Hormone Therapy for Endometriosis
Endometriosis causes severe pelvic pain, back pain, and other discomfort. Fortunately, simple pain medications, birth control pills, and other hormone therapies can provide some relief from the symptoms of endometriosis. Some of these options will stop menstrual periods entirely.
Medications for endometriosis pain relief include:
- Birth control (pills, IUDs, injections, etc.)
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) medications such as Depo-Lupron, Orilissa, and Myfembree
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Danazol/Danocrine
- Over-the-counter pain relief meds
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Endometriosis Pain
Pelvic floor physical therapy is among the lesser-known interventions for endometriosis. The goal of all physical therapy is to improve mobility, strength, and functionality with certain exercises and techniques that target specific muscles. Pelvic floor PT trains the affected muscles of the pelvic floor and abs to work together more effectively, allowing them to eventually relax and recover.
After an initial consultation and physical exam to determine the best course of action, your pelvic floor exercises and personalized PT may include elements the following:
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Breathing techniques
- Trigger point therapy
- Deep tissue massage to break up scar tissue
Duration of treatment will vary depending on each patient’s needs, but results of pelvic floor physical therapy are encouraging: Up to 63% of women with endometriosis can expect reduced pain after just six sessions.
Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis
If endometriosis pain persists after hormone therapy and medication, there are other treatment options available. Laparoscopic surgery can be used to diagnose endometriosis and treat certain symptoms. Laparoscopic surgery may also be necessary if severe endometriosis and scar tissue are causing ovarian cysts or infertility or interfering with other organs like the bowels or bladder.
A laparoscopy is performed with a long slender device called a laparoscope. The laparoscope is inserted into the abdomen via a small incision. The camera on the laparoscope lets your doctor check the reproductive organs for signs of endometrial tissue. If endometrial tissue is discovered during the surgery, it may be treated with other instruments inserted through other incisions or the initial incision.
In addition to endometriosis, laparoscopy can also be used to deal with ectopic pregnancy, fibroids, bilateral tubal litigation, hysterectomy, and more. This outpatient procedure is performed with general anesthesia. Recovery time is short and scarring is minimal. At Sylacauga OBGYN, our physicians are board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and include fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists.
Relief Within Reach: To Treat Endometriosis Pain, Choose Sylacauga OB-GYN
If chronic endometriosis pain is keeping you from living your life to the fullest, call Sylacauga OBGYN. We are ready to work together to get to the bottom of your discomfort and find a treatment that works for you. Your first appointment begins with a consultation where we will discuss the severity of your endometriosis symptoms and review your medical history.
At Sylacauga OBGYN, our gynecologists are ready to answer any questions you may have about reproductive health. Each member of our team upholds our commitment to patient education as we provide comprehensive gynecological care, pregnancy care, delivery, postpartum care, and other women’s wellness services. At our office, we give you peace of mind and a positive atmosphere during testing, routine exams, and whatever other women’s reproductive health services you may need. We are conveniently accessible to patients from Talladega, Alexander City, Childersburg, Birmingham, Clay County, Coosa County, and more.
Give us a call at 256-487-7783 to schedule your appointment and find out how to manage endometriosis.