Endometriosis is a disabling disorder that causes extreme pain and discomfort, which can cause you to miss work or school. In addition to pain, this disorder can rob of the joy of being a parent by causing infertility if not corrected in good time. Fortunately, Dr. Khamvongsa offers effective treatments for endometriosis in Miami to help your dream of becoming a parent remain valid.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a severe disorder in which your endometrium grows in other parts of your body other than your uterus. The endometrium is located on the walls of your uterus, and it gradually builds up and sheds every month during your menstruation. However, there are cases where the endometrial tissue develops in other body parts where your body cannot remove. Over time the tissue thickens and causes the development of cysts or scar tissue around your organs. As the disorder progresses, the adhesions cause your organs to stick together, leading to severe pain. The pain often intensifies during menstrual periods. Specialists recommend surgery as the most effective treatment.
How can you know if you have endometriosis?
Severe cramping and pain during menstrual periods is the most common complaint among patients with endometriosis. It is challenging to detect endometriosis while still in its early stages because it has symptoms similar to other diseases. You may experience the following symptoms:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Pain with sexual intercourse
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Infertility
- Pain during urination or bowel movements
The intensity of your pain may not necessarily indicate the severity of your condition. You may experience mild symptoms and have severe endometriosis, or you may experience mild symptoms and have mild endometriosis. The above symptoms can be confused for diseases like ovarian cysts and pelvic inflammatory disease. Your doctor recommends regular gynecological and pelvic exams to help detect endometriosis before it causes havoc to your health.
What are the available treatments for endometriosis?
During your visit to Miami Institute for Women’s Health, the team conducts a thorough medical exam, asks about your symptoms and the location of your discomfort. They may also perform ultrasound, pelvic exam, laparoscopy, and MRIs to rule out endometriosis. If indeed you have endometriosis, the specialists recommend the appropriate treatment, medications, or surgery. Some of the available treatments include:
- Hormone therapy
- Pain medication
- Fertility treatment
- Conservative surgery
- Hysterectomy and removal of ovaries
Hormonal medications reduce the growth rate of the endometrial tissue, but it doesn’t offer long-lasting relief. The medicines may also hinder you from conceiving. Dr. Khamvongsa usually recommends surgery in cases with minimal risks.
Can endometriosis cause infertility?
Patients with severe endometriosis may have difficulties getting pregnant, but most women usually conceive after treatment. In extreme cases, Dr. Khamvongsa may recommend a hysterectomy which may permanently prevent from getting pregnant. If endometriosis is diagnosed early, you can salvage your fertility and still experience the joy of being a mother.
If you suspect that you have endometriosis, contact Dr. Khamvongsa or schedule an online appointment for an accurate diagnosis.
