An obstetrics/gynecologist (OB/GYN) specializes in women's health. This includes pregnancy, delivering babies, postpartum aftercare, diseases, birth control, and much more. Many women see their OB/GYN at least once every year for an annual check-up. If you are pregnant, you will see them several times throughout your pregnancy until birth. You can also schedule an appointment with them if you think you have an illness or problem related to women's health. One of the most common illnesses that a woman might visit an OB/GYN for is endometriosis. This guide goes over the symptoms, causes, and treatments for this disorder.
What is endometriosis?
In a normal cycle, the tissue will grow on the inside of your uterus. When you have this condition, it grows on places other than the uterus, such as the fallopian tubes or ovaries. In more severe cases, it can grow on areas beyond the pelvic area. Even though it grows in the wrong place, it still behaves like a normal menstrual cycle. It grows and then breaks down, which is what happens during your period. Instead of shedding the tissue through your vagina, the tissue has no place to go and becomes trapped in the body. Eventually, the tissue turns to scar tissue or cysts.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
There are multiple symptoms that are related to this disorder. Some of the most common are:
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Pelvic pain
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Pain during sex
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Abnormally painful periods
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Heavy periods
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Bloating
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Nausea
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Fatigue
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Infertility
One of the most noticeable symptoms is the extreme pain that this disorder causes. If you suspect you have endometriosis, you should see your doctor right away.
What are the causes of endometriosis?
Doctors are not quite sure what causes endometriosis. There are several explanations, but they are not proven. Some of the possible causes are scar tissue in that area or immune disorders. Your doctor will be able to tell you which one may have caused the disorder, but as mentioned previously, it is extremely difficult to pinpoint the cause.
How do you treat endometriosis?
Endometriosis is detected through pelvic exams, ultrasounds, laparoscopy, and MRIs. These procedures give your OB/GYN a detailed look at your pelvic area. Abnormal tissue growth and the presence of scar tissue will be a huge indicator of endometriosis. Once the doctor makes a diagnosis, they will start your treatment plan. A treatment plan for this disorder usually includes pain medication, hormone therapy, and surgery in severe cases.
Conclusion
Endometriosis is very serious. If you suspect that you have it, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. The risk factors for leaving the condition untreated can lead to infertility or ovarian cancer.
For more information, visit site such as http://www.billingsclinic.com.
