Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects approximately 10% or more of women and girls who are of reproductive age. The condition is associated with various symptoms, including pelvic pain and abnormal, heavy, or painful menstrual periods. Dr. Rhodesia LaStrap, the experienced gynecologist at our practice in North Richland Hills, TX, treats endometriosis and can help you manage symptoms.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissues similar to those that line the inside of the uterus actually grow outside the uterus. This often causes pain, discomfort, and other symptoms. One problem is that the tissue growing outside the uterus thickens, breaks down, and bleeds during every menstrual cycle just like regular uterine tissue. However, there is no way for the broken-down tissue and blood to leave the body since it is outside the uterus.

The exact cause of endometriosis is not known. Some females begin experiencing symptoms of the condition when they get their first period. Some women and girls with endometriosis have a higher risk of developing other health conditions, including allergies, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, heart disease, and certain cancers and autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms

Several symptoms can occur with endometriosis, although not everyone with the condition experiences symptoms. One of the most common signs of endometriosis is pain in the pelvic area, especially during menstruation, during intercourse, and when urinating or having a bowel movement. Other signs and symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Painful menstrual periods
• Heavy, abnormal, or irregular periods
• Chronic or severe pain in the pelvis
• Pain or discomfort during intercourse
• Pain during bowel movements or urination
• Abdominal bloating or cramping
• Nausea or constipation
• Frequent yeast infections
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Fatigue

Treatments

There is no cure for endometriosis, but several effective treatments are available for managing and alleviating symptoms. The skilled doctor at our practice in North Richland Hills, TX, treats endometriosis and will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms and needs. Treatment options could include:

• Pain relief medications
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Laparoscopic surgery to remove the excess tissue
• Hysterectomy and ovary removal
• Hormone therapy

The purpose of laparoscopic surgery is to remove excess tissue outside of the uterus while leaving the uterus and ovaries intact. A hysterectomy involves removal of the uterus, and sometimes ovaries, and is only performed if medications or other therapies have not provided sufficient relief from symptoms.

Chronic or severe pelvic pain and heavy or abnormal periods are signs of possible endometriosis. Schedule an appointment with Dr. LaStrap for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis by calling our office in North Richland Hills, TX, at (817) 590-2229.