Endometriosis is a condition that affects up to ten percent of American women during childbearing age. This condition results due to abnormal growth of cells in the inner side of the uterus. But in this condition, it grows outside the uterus and mainly occurs in the lower abdomen and pelvis. Suppose you feel lower abdominal pain, menstrual periods accompanied by pain, pain during sexual intercourse, and problems getting pregnant. In that case, it may be a sign of this condition, and you should seek medical help to identify the cause. Specialists of endometriosis in Jackson Heights at Raveco Medical offer advanced evaluation and treatment for this condition.
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Why is endometriosis painful?
A woman who has endometriosis bleeds from cells and tissue outside the uterus during menstruation. When blood comes in contact with the other organs inside the abdomen, it can cause inflammation and irritation, thus causing pain. Scar tissue may also occur from the affected area and cause pain.
Can endometriosis cause infertility?
Although one can get pregnant if one has endometriosis, it often makes it more challenging. Between 20 to 40% of infertile women have this condition. Endometriosis interferes with fertility in two ways; first, by distorting the fallopian tubes, they cannot pick up the egg after ovulation. Secondly, it creates inflammation that can affect the roles of the ovary, egg, fallopian tube, or uterus.
Am I at a risk of getting endometriosis?
Several factors might put you at risk of developing endometriosis. Take note of the following:
- Starting your period at an early age.
- High levels of estrogen in your body
- Never have given birth
- Experiencing menopause at an older stage
- Short menstrual cycles that are less than 27 days.
- Low body mass index.
- Family history, that is, if family members had a history of the disease.
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Uterine abnormalities
When should I see the doctor?
If you feel heavy and painful periods or experience any signs mentioned above, you should visit your doctor.
How should I prepare for my doctor’s appointment?
Keep a record of your pain and symptoms.
Keeping a diary of your pain is crucial for the doctor to track your symptoms and help them trace and identify how symptoms differ throughout the month. It also helps them to know if your symptoms correlate with anything.
Plan what you want to discuss
Your doctor’s appointment can be a bit rushed, and everything you plan to discuss goes to waste. To avoid this, plan early by writing small points that you can easily remember.
Take any medication with you.
Your doctor may want to know your current medications. This task will help them see if it is right for you or combine it with another treatment.
Take any recent hospital letters or hospital notes
Your doctor should have all your medical history to enable them to make appropriate decisions
Do not be afraid to ask questions
Your doctor might give you a lot of information quickly; take advantage of this opportunity to ask any questions.
Endometriosis can easily be misdiagnosed; therefore, you should seek the help of a professional at Raveco Medical for accurate diagnosis and treatment.