There are many reasons why you might develop chronic pelvic pain. For women, endometriosis is one of the most common causes.
Endometriosis specialist John A. Whitfield, MD, of Fort Worth, Texas, diagnoses and treats this common condition. Up to 80% of women who experience pelvic pain may have endometriosis as a contributor.
Could your chronic pelvic pain be endometriosis? Let’s examine the condition, its symptoms, and treatments.
When uterine lining tissue grows outside of the uterus itself, it can still function as normal tissue, following your menstrual cycle, causing pain and heavy periods, and, in some cases, resulting in fertility problems. Endometriosis is naturally a chronic condition, though it may go away on its own, usually after menopause, if it happens.
The most common places affected by endometriosis include:
Endometrial tissue can block your fallopian tubes with scar tissue, resulting in fertility problems or an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy (where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus). Though less common, endometriosis may develop in the bladder, diaphragm, intestines, lungs, rectum, and other locations.
Pelvic pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis. Pain ranges from discomfort to severe, often worsening before or during your menstrual period.
Menstrual cramps can be more severe, or you may have abdominal and/or back pain at any time. Painful intercourse is common, and you may develop pain while having a bowel movement or during urination.
It’s possible to have endometriosis without symptoms, and there’s no correlation between symptom strength and the severity of endometrial growth. Symptom-free endometriosis may be significant enough to cause fertility issues.
Your treatment plan depends on the severity of endometrial growth, the impact and strength of your symptoms, family planning expectations, and your age. Together, you and Dr. Whitfield will discuss the best options for dealing with endometriosis and pelvic pain.
Preserving fertility usually results in a pain management strategy. As well as over-the-counter pain medications, several hormonal medications can help control endometriosis pain, including conventional birth control pills, danazol, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) options.
Hormonal control methods typically make your period lighter or pause your cycle entirely. Symptoms will likely return when you discontinue medication.
Surgical solutions for endometriosis may be an option, depending on specific aspects of your case. Surgery targets endometrial tissue for removal to reduce pain. Sometimes, laparoscopic surgery may improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Hysterectomy is also an option, but only after you’re certain you want no further pregnancies. Endometriosis can result in adhesions, cysts, and scar tissue without treatment.
Endometriosis can take both mental and physical tolls on your life. Contact Dr. Whitfield’s office at 817-927-2229 to schedule a personal consultation today.
