Help for endometriosis

If you suspect that you have endometriosis, there is help. The first step is to visit your gynecologist for a complete examination. Diagnosis of endometriosis begins with a medical history and physical exam, including a pelvic exam. Gynecologist, Dr Milton Hardy informed All Woman, “during the examination the medical history of the patient would be explored. This would give clues as to the existence of a problem. However, to be sure, a laparoscopy exam would have to be done.”

A laparoscopy is a procedure in which a small incision is made, and a lighted tube is inserted into the pelvis. The healthcare provider looks for abnormal cells and other abnormalities. If the endometriosis is severe, an exploratory laparotomy may be done. This involves a larger incision in the abdomen. The provider can then use tiny surgical tools to identify problems.

According to doctors, there are two types of treatments available – medical and surgical. All Woman spoke to general practitioner, Dr James Peart about the treatments. “Medical treatment involves the use of hormones and prescription drugs to dry up the endometrical tissue.”

Different types of hormones can control the growth of the endometriosis and the symptoms. Oral contraceptives or high doses of progestin may slow abnormal tissue growth. Danazol, a weak male hormone, can shrink cell growth. But, it is only given to women who do not want to get pregnant. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists may also be used. These medicines stop the ovary from making hormones and releasing an egg. Because bone loss is possible, GnRH agonists are used for only 6 months.

Dr Peart explains that the alternative is surgery. “Surgical treatment involves the removal of the deposit of endometrical tissue.”

Surgery is an option for women with severe endometriosis or infertility. Laser surgery, laparoscopy, or laparotomy may be done to remove endometrical tissue and adhesions. For women with severe pelvic pain, cutting certain nerves in the pelvis may help. Hysterectomy and the removal of ovaries may be done if an older woman does not want children. When asked how long one could stay in the hospital, Dr Peart replied, “anywhere from two days to one week.”

In terms of the success rates of the treatment, Dr Hardy stated, “there is a 60 percent success rate for surgical or medical treatments.” Endometriosis recurs in 10% to 30% of cases. Despite treatment, pelvic pain may return. Fertility may be impaired. After previously infertile women have had surgery, pregnancy occurs in about: 75% of those who had mild disease 50% to 60% of those who had moderate disease 30% to 40% of those who had severe disease. Dr Hardy explains, “however, one of the best things to be done is for the patient to become pregnant. Pregnancy reduces or delays the reoccurrence of endometriosis. The catch is that endometriosis can cause a woman to have difficulty in becoming pregnant.”