What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a common, yet painful, health problem in women. The endometrium is the tissue that lines the uterus. When the endometrium grows outside of the uterus and on other areas of the body, endometriosis occurs. Most often, endometriosis is found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus, and the tissues that hold the uterus in place. Other growth sites can include the vagina, cervix, vulva, bladder, bowel, or rectum. In rare cases, it can appear in the lungs, brain, and skin.
What Are the Symptoms?
The most common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Chronic pain in the lower back and pelvis
- Painful menstrual cramps that get worse over time
- Intestinal pain
- Painful bowel movements
- Bleeding or spotting during periods
- Painful intercourse
- Infertility
- Digestive problems including diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or bloating, especially during periods
How Is it Diagnosed?
If you are experiencing any symptoms related to endometriosis, schedule an appointment at Turner Medical Arts. A pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI, and laparoscopic surgery can all be provided as means of detecting this condition. Surgery is the only way to be certain that you have endometriosis, as a surgeon is able to look inside the pelvic area to see endometriosis tissue. Often OBGYNs can diagnose this issue just by examining the growths. In other cases, a small tissue sample must be studied under a microscope to confirm it.
Treatments for Endometriosis
GYN surgery and vaginal reconstruction are usually reserved as treatments for patients with severe symptoms. During these procedures, Dr. Turner will locate the areas of endometriosis and remove the patches. The duration of these procedures varies based on the quantity of patches and patient condition. After your visit, followup appointments may be scheduled to assure your long term recovery and well being.
Request an Appointment in Santa Barbara, California
If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed above, schedule an appointment at Turner Medical Arts for a diagnosis. When you come in for your appointment, you will be treated with compassion and understanding. Our goal is to make you fully aware of your overall health and wellness. If surgery is necessary. Request an appointment by filling out the form on our website, or give us a call at (805) 962-1957 today.
