Symptoms of Endometriosis

Severe pelvic pain is the most obvious symptom of endometriosis. If you are experiencing any type of severe abdominal pain it is important for you to visit with your health care provider. However, not all women suffer from these terrible cramps. Other common symptoms of endometriosis include:

  • painful periods
  • pain during ovulation
  • deep, stabbing pain during intercourse
  • painful bowel movements
  • painful urination
  • heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods 

Treating Endometriosis

In order to avoid further damage to your reproductive organs, it is necessary to get treatment for your endometriosis as soon as possible. There is no cure for the condition, however, a number of excellent treatments are available to reduce your discomfort and preserve your fertility.

Medical Treatments

There are a variety of medications designed to help reduce the symptoms of endometriosis. Commonly-prescribed medications include:

  • Pain Killers: Over-the-counter pain killers can help to reduce the cramping and pain associated with endometriosis. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxin are used by many women suffering from the condition. If your pain is severe, speak with your health care provider about a prescription pain killer.
  • Hormonal Contraceptives: The birth control pill can help to regulate your menstruation and reduce period pain by controlling ovulation. Many women with endometriosis take the birth control pill continuously, in order to reduce the number of periods they experience each year.
  • Gn-RH Agonists: Gn-RH agonists are a synthetic form of gonadatropin-releasing hormone. This hormone helps to control estrogen production in your body, which contributes to the growth of endometrial tissue. Bleeding and other symptoms of endometriosis tend to disappear within four to six weeks of beginning Gn-RH therapy.

Surgical Treatments

Sometimes surgery is required to help reduce or eliminate endometriosis symptoms. Various surgeries can be performed including endometrial ablation. However, these surgeries may compromise future fertility.

Treating Infertility

If you are suffering from endometriosis-related infertility, you will likely be placed on a Gn-RH agonist. This will help to slow pelvic bleeding and preserve fertility. IUI or IVF is then recommended in order to achieve pregnancy.

 

Table of Contents
1. Endometriosis
2. Painful periods?
 
 
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