Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and pain. Though symptoms can fluctuate, endometriosis doesn’t go away without intervention.
The exceptional providers at Ideal Gynecology are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for women experiencing gynecological conditions like endometriosis.
You don’t have to live with unmanaged pain or uncertainty about your health. Here’s what you need to know about treating endometriosis and what you can do to take control of your symptoms.
Endometriosis is a progressive condition, which means it worsens over time. The misplaced endometrial-like tissue responds to hormonal fluctuations, thickening and breaking down with each menstrual cycle.
However, unlike the normal uterine lining that leaves the body when you menstruate, this tissue doesn’t have a path to exit the body. The result is ongoing inflammation, scarring, and sometimes painful adhesions that bind organs together develop.
For some women, symptoms may come and go, leading to the false impression that the condition is improving. However, the underlying disease process often remains or progresses, potentially causing:
This makes it important to seek an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Waiting to see if endometriosis gets better on its own allows the disease to progress and symptoms to worsen. The longer endometriosis goes untreated, it can be more challenging to treat down the road.
Hormones play a major role in endometriosis, which is why symptoms often change at different life stages. Here’s a quick overview:
Some women experience temporary relief during pregnancy due to increased progesterone levels, which can suppress the growth of endometrial tissue. However, this is not a cure, and symptoms often return after childbirth when hormone levels normalize.
For some, menopause brings significant relief due to the decline in estrogen levels, which slows the growth of endometrial implants. However, this isn’t universal. In cases where scar tissue or adhesions have already developed, pain may continue even after menopause.
Though endometriosis doesn’t resolve on its own, effective treatments are available to help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being.
Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or medications that suppress estrogen can help slow the progression of endometriosis and reduce painful symptoms.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can provide relief, though they don’t treat the underlying condition.
Women with endometriosis often experience heavy periods. If this is the case for you, talk to our team to see if endometrial ablation is right for you. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in-office. Ideal Gynecology offers NovaSure and the Cerene endometrial ablation systems.
Women who are done having children may be good candidates for endometrial ablation to control heavy bleeding. Other treatments, including hormonal medications, and intrauterine devices (IUD) may be more suitable options.
Many women find some symptom relief through dietary changes, pelvic physical therapy, and stress management. A multi-faceted approach can often improve overall comfort and quality of life. Our team can discuss your lifestyle and make appropriate recommendations.
If symptoms continue despite these approaches, our team may discuss referring you to a surgeon for laparoscopic surgery. This is a minimally invasive surgery to remove endometrial implants and scar tissue.
Endometriosis won’t disappear on its own, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with constant pain. The right treatment plan can help you manage symptoms and regain control of your life.
The Ideal Gynecology team specializes in personalized women’s healthcare. If you’re struggling with endometriosis-related pain and other symptoms, contact us to schedule a consultation today to explore your next steps and start feeling better.
