Endometriosis Specialist

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a common, and often painful, women’s health condition that results from the tissue that normally lines your uterus (endometrium) growing in places it shouldn’t. Displaced endometrial tissue (called implants) most often affects your reproductive organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining your pelvis.

When you have endometriosis, the displaced tissue can thicken and break down with your menstrual cycle, and can irritate surrounding tissue and eventually form scar tissue and adhesions. 

Severe cases of endometriosis can cause debilitating symptoms. Fortunately, the physicians at Adefris & Toppin Women’s Specialists offer a variety of treatments that can significantly reduce or eliminate your symptoms.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Pelvic pain is the most prominent symptom of endometriosis. The pain often worsens with your period, causing much more discomfort than typical menstrual cramps. Other signs and symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Painful period cramps
• Pain during or after sex
• Painful urination 
• Fatigue, diarrhea, or nausea, especially during your period
  
  

Because these symptoms are similar to other gynecological problems, an accurate diagnosis from your Adefris & Toppin Women’s Specialists physician is crucial. 

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

To diagnose endometriosis or other causes of pelvic pain, your Adefris & Toppin Women’s Specialists physician will review your medical history, perform a pelvic exam, and ask you to describe your symptoms. They may use imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to look for ovarian cysts associated with endometriosis. 

The only way to know for sure that you have endometriosis is with a minimally invasive surgical procedure called laparoscopy. While this can be done by your Adefris & Toppin Women’s Specialists physician if indicated, not everyone requires surgery and treatment can be started without a surgery.

How is endometriosis treated?

After diagnosis, your Adefris & Toppin Women’s Specialists physician discusses the best treatment options for your specific endometriosis symptoms. Endometriosis treatment may include:

• Medicines including hormonal therapy, such as birth control
• Laparoscopic removal of abnormal endometrial tissue
• Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and ovaries)
  
  

Endometriosis can make it difficult to get pregnant, but many women with endometriosis go on to have successful pregnancies after treatment. 

For more information about endometriosis, call Adefris & Toppin Women’s Specialists or book an appointment online today.

We see patients for ultrasounds, pregnancy, birth control, and much more. We are located at 215 Radio Drive, Suite 200 Woodbury, MN 55125. Call us to book your appointment today.