What is Endometriosis?
- Posted On:
- Written By: Mark Denker, M.D.
More than 6 million women and young girls in the U.S. suffer from endometriosis, a condition that occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus (the endometrium) is found outside the uterus – typically it will be in the abdomen, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the ligaments that support the uterus. Endometriosis can cause internal bleeding and inflammation, which will lead to a number of symptoms.
Symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Extreme pain before and during menstrual cycle
- Infertility
- Fatigue
- Painful urination
- Chemical sensitivities
Causes of Endometriosis
Although the causes of endometriosis remains unknown, a theory referred to as the transtubal migration theory suggests that, during menstruation, some tissue is backed up into the fallopian tube and begins growing in the abdomen. Other medical experts believe that the tissue growth is a result of an immune system problem or a hormonal imbalance.
Treatments for Endometriosis
While there is no cure to endometriosis, it can be treated and monitored with a number of different options. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may recommend medication or endometriosis surgery. Typically, a doctor will prescribe pain relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen to help with discomfort. Oftentimes doctors will use hormone therapy to slow down endometrial tissue growth and prevent new tissue implants from forming.
We Can Help
At Palm Beach Fertility Center, you are not a statistic. We help countless patients struggling with infertility caused by endometriosis and we offer a number of treatments along with follow up therapy plans to monitor your remission. We uphold strict standards of care and provide a nurturing environment tailored to suit your needs.
Contact our Boca Raton fertility center at (888) 819-5177 to schedule your first appointment!