Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects millions of women and can cause pelvic pain, heavy periods, and fertility challenges. Although it is common, endometriosis is often underdiagnosed or mistaken for other conditions. At Complete Care ObGyn, our Henderson OB/GYN team provides compassionate, expert care to help patients manage symptoms and protect long-term health.

If pelvic pain or menstrual symptoms are interfering with your daily life, evaluation and treatment can make a meaningful difference.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. These growths may develop on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, or other pelvic structures.

Because this tissue responds to hormonal changes but has no way to exit the body, it can lead to inflammation, scarring, and ongoing pain.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of endometriosis vary and may range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Pelvic pain or cramping, especially during periods
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Pain with bowel movements or urination during menstruation
• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Fatigue or low energy
• Bloating or digestive discomfort
• Difficulty becoming pregnant

Some patients experience significant symptoms, while others have few or none.

What Causes Endometriosis?

The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood. Factors that may contribute include:

• Retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvis
• Hormonal influences, particularly estrogen
• Immune system dysfunction
• Genetic predisposition or family history

Endometriosis most often affects women in their reproductive years but can begin in adolescence.

When to See a Provider

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Painful periods that disrupt daily activities
• Pelvic pain outside of your menstrual cycle
• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty getting pregnant without another known cause
• Symptoms that have been dismissed but continue to worsen

Early diagnosis can help reduce long-term complications and improve quality of life.

How Endometriosis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis begins with a detailed review of symptoms and medical history, followed by a pelvic exam. Additional evaluation may include:

• Pelvic ultrasound to look for ovarian cysts called endometriomas
• MRI for more detailed imaging in certain cases

The only definitive way to diagnose endometriosis is through laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows direct visualization and possible removal of abnormal tissue.

Treatment Options

There is no cure for endometriosis, but symptoms can often be managed effectively. Treatment is tailored to symptom severity, age, and reproductive goals.

Medical treatment options may include:

• Hormonal birth control to reduce or suppress periods
• Progestin therapy, including pills, implants, or IUDs
• GnRH medications to reduce estrogen levels
• NSAIDs for pain management

Surgical options may include:

• Laparoscopic excision or ablation of endometrial tissue
• Hysterectomy in severe cases when other treatments fail and childbearing is complete

Fertility-focused care may include:

• Surgical treatment to improve fertility potential
• Referral to a fertility specialist
• Assisted reproductive options such as IVF

Living Well With Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a long-term condition, but many patients achieve significant relief with the right care plan. Ongoing management and regular follow-up help control symptoms and protect reproductive health.

Schedule an appointment with Complete Care ObGyn in Henderson, NV to discuss symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for endometriosis.