What is Endometriosis?
Many women just endure pelvic pain of all types by chalking it up to just having a painful period. There is a condition called endometriosis that can be managed with care when diagnosed by one of our board-certified or board-eligible OBGYNs at Essential Women's Health Associates. When the tissues of the uterus start to grow outside of your uterine lining, the excess growth can cause pain and pressure on your uterus and surrounding organs. Endometriosis can impact more than just your reproductive health. While you may feel it during your menstrual cycles, you may also experience discomfort during bowel movements, when your bladder is full, or painful sexual intercourse. More advanced cases of endometriosis can impact your fertility. If you would like to see a specialist about your symptoms of endometriosis, call and make an appointment at our office in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV.
Endometriosis Reviews
What causes endometriosis?
Endometriosis is still being studied today as to why some women develop these tissues outside of their uterine lining. There is no cure for endometriosis; however, we do our best to manage the complications and pain associated with the condition. We will perform a comprehensive examination with diagnostic testing to find out the severity of your endometriosis.
What are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition that can cause a wide range of symptoms. The most common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Severe pelvic pain, especially during your period
- Bleeding or spotting between menstrual cycles
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Chronic fatigue
- Problems with fertility
- Digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation
Patients who are concerned that they may have endometriosis should contact an OBGYN in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV for a full evaluation. We understand that endometriosis symptoms can be difficult and uncomfortable to cope with, and we strive to provide our patients with the highest quality of care.
How is endometriosis treated?
Hormone Treatment
By readjusting your hormones to be balanced, we can slow the progression of tissue growth to some degree. You may know these types of medications to be birth control, but hormone-based pills, patches, vaginal rings, and intrauterine devices can also be used to treat endometriosis.
What are the risk factors for endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, and while the exact cause isn’t fully understood, certain factors are known to increase risk. Symptoms and severity can vary widely, which is why understanding personal risk factors is an important first step. Family history and hormonal influences appear to play a significant role, and the condition is often diagnosed years after symptoms begin. Lifestyle, menstrual history, and underlying health factors may also contribute. Common risk factors for endometriosis include:
- Family history of endometriosis
- Early onset of menstruation
- Short menstrual cycles
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Never having given birth
Our team takes time to review your symptoms, medical history, and personal risk profile in detail. From there, we can help determine whether further evaluation is appropriate and discuss strategies for symptom management and long-term care.
Endometrial Ablation
A minimally invasive way to eliminate the tissue on your uterus is called endometrial ablation. We can perform endometrial ablation to thin out the tissue to manage your symptoms. This is a temporary solution as the uterus will continue to produce more in the future.
Surgical Action
The most aggressive form of treatment is having surgery to remove the abundant tissues growing outside of your uterus. Women who have surgery for endometriosis generally have the endometrial tissue growing outside of the uterus and moving in their other organs. Also, your pain level, inflammation, infertility symptoms, and heavy periods are all factors that contribute the decision to our recommending surgery. When other interventions have not worked to provide you relief, surgery will be offered as a last resort.
What can I expect during endometriosis treatment?
We will plan your treatment together. The growth rate of your endometrial cells, the amount of scar tissue you have present, and the level of pain you feel during bouts of inflammation will guide our decisions on how to proceed. We will start with the least invasive and work our way up to surgery if necessary.
Endometriosis FAQs
What if endometriosis goes untreated?
Endometriosis is known for causing pelvic pain, which can be accompanied by some or no other symptoms. Women with untreated endometriosis may experience cramping, painful intercourse, and urinary problems. Some research shows that infertility is also possible. Patients in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV, are strongly advised to meet with an OB/GYN to discuss their symptoms.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Essential Women's Health Associates will ask about your personal medical history, family history (especially of endometriosis), and perform a pelvic exam before diagnosing endometriosis. We may perform additional tests to confirm your condition. Our team can then discuss the best course of treatment based on our results.
Why choose us for endometriosis treatment?
At Essential Women's Health Associates, we pride ourselves on providing the latest and most advanced treatments for our patients. Our office is fully-equipped with patient care necessities and modern equipment to provide safe and effective options. We will walk you through every step of your treatment and recovery, and we will be here to answer all of your questions.
Can endometriosis cause infertility?
Endometriosis can contribute to infertility by causing inflammation, scar tissue, and anatomical changes in the pelvic organs that may interfere with ovulation or egg transport. However, many women with endometriosis are still able to conceive, especially with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Patients searching for endometriosis and infertility treatment in Las Vegas may benefit from discussing reproductive goals with Dr. Schoenhaus to explore available options.
When should I see a doctor for endometriosis symptoms?
You should consider scheduling an evaluation if you experience severe menstrual pain, persistent pelvic discomfort, difficulty becoming pregnant, or symptoms that interfere with work, relationships, or daily activities. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes. Women looking for a trusted gynecologist for endometriosis in Las Vegas, NV can contact Essential Women's Health Associates to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schoenhaus.
What does endometriosis pain feel like?
Endometriosis pain is often described as intense menstrual cramping that may begin before a period starts and continue after it ends, but it can also present as chronic pelvic pain, sharp abdominal discomfort, lower back pain, or pain during intercourse. Some women report pain that disrupts work, sleep, and daily activities. Because symptoms vary, women searching for endometriosis pain relief should consider a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Schoenhaus to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Our Focus is you
Our OBGYNs at Essential Women's Health Associates in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV will do their best to help you comfortably manage your condition. After your diagnosis, we do have treatment options that range from oral medications to surgery. Please contact our office to experience fewer symptoms and discomfort with our endometriosis interventions. Contact our office at either location for an appointment.