What
causes endometriosis?
The
exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, however, there are
a few theories on the cause of endometriosis. One theory is
that the endometrial tissue results from remnants of embryotic
tissue. Another possible theory is retrograde menstrual flow.
With this theory, it is believed that during menstruation,
menstrual flow backs up into the fallopian tubes.
Am
I at risk for endometriosis?
Risk
factors for endometriosis include:
- early
age of onset of first menstrual cycle
- menstruation
lasting 7 days
- heavier
than normal flow
- menstrual
pain
- history
of sister or mother with endometriosis
What
are symptoms of endometrious and how will my doctor know if
I have it?
Symptoms
of endometriosis include:
- pelvic
pain
- painful
menstruation
- painful
intercourse
- abnormal
uterine bleeding
- painful
defecation
- excessive
or prolonged menstruation
- bleeding
or spotting between menstrual cycles
- infertility
Your
doctor will normally do a pelvic exam and check for fixed
tender areas. She may also do a pelvic ultrasound or run blood
tests to rule out other possible cause of your symptoms. A
laparoscopy is the most definitive way to diagnose endometriosis.
What
are treatment options for endometriosis?
Your
doctor may recommend analgesics such as tylenol and/or NSAIDS
(nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs). Another common treatment
used is oral contraceptives. Since oral contraceptivers can
shorten menstruation or stop it all together this may help
relieve symptoms. They also help in regulating the growth
of endometrial tissue. Other hormonal medications, including
male hormone derivatives may be used, however, side effects
include decreased breast size, voice changes, and other masculine
attributes.
Surgical
options include laser ablation of endometrial tissue and hysterectomy.
Menopause
will alleviate symptoms and endometriosis may also regress
during pregnancy due to lack of menstrual cycles during that
time.
How
does endometriosis effect my fertility?
Because
endometriosis can cause scarring and adhesions this can unfortunately
lead to difficulty conceiving and/or infertility. Women who
have endometriosis are encouraged to have children early.
