If you suffer from severe cramping during your time of the month, you might have a condition called endometriosis. Endometriosis can be a serious cause of infertility. One in 10 women suffers from this disease, but most go undiagnosed. Dr. Patrick Diesfeld at Women’s Health Partnership Medical Group helps diagnose and treat patients who might be suffering from endometriosis. If you live around Ventura, California, call Women’s Health Partnership Medical Group or schedule an appointment online.
Endometriosis is a gynecological disease where the endometrial tissue that normally grows in your uterus grows outside it. This tissue can grow on your ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowels, or even your bladder.
Endometriosis can start as early as a girl’s first period, and menopause doesn’t often resolve all the symptoms of endometriosis.
Some women suffering from endometriosis have no symptoms at all, but many complain of extreme pain often associated with their period.
However, the severity of your pain doesn’t always correlate with the extent of endometriosis. Some women with mild endometriosis have intense pain while others with advanced endometriosis may have little or no pain.
Common symptoms of endometriosis include:
Although anyone can get endometriosis, some of the risk factors associated with this condition include:
There’s currently no cure for endometriosis, however, with the right guidance, you can manage your symptoms. If your symptoms are too severe, you may need surgery, but Dr. Diesfeld recommends trying other treatment options first.
Other options include pain medications, hormone therapies, and potentially fertility treatments.
Most women are able to relieve the pain of symptoms and can still have children. Pregnancy can actually temporarily relieve your symptoms.
If you think you might be suffering from endometriosis, call Women’s Health Partnership Medical Group or schedule an appointment online.