Endometriosis treatments tackle complex disease
Endometriosis is a common, chronic disease in women, occurring when tissue that forms the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis is difficult to diagnose, as it can present in various locations, differs considerably in symptoms, and often evades detection by ultrasound. However, treating endometriosis is possible, and can both reduce symptoms and make it possible to conceive. It is important to find experienced care when considering endometriosis treatments, and our Las Vegas reproductive endocrinologists are well-versed in exploring the best options.
Endometriosis can vary in severity. In a normal cycle, the endometrium is shed in menstruation, but in cases of endometriosis, the mislocated tissue can’t be shed, sometimes resulting in debilitating pain, inflammation, scarring or cysts that can affect fertility. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, endometriosis can be found in up to 50% of infertile women, many of whom are happy to learn that effective endometriosis treatments are available.
We have options for endometriosis treatments
Our Las Vegas reproductive endocrinologists can sympathize with women who have had a delayed diagnosis of endometriosis because their pain was wrongly, and frustratingly, attributed to “painful periods.”
Our expert team understands the physical and emotional toll of endometriosis. Our Las Vegas reproductive endocrinologists place the utmost importance on understanding the severity of your endometriosis, as well as your current and future family-building plans, which are paramount when considering endometriosis treatments.
Here are the medical and surgical options we typically recommend for treating endometriosis, customized to you.
- Pain medications are often a first line of defense, and include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including Advil, Motrin (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen).
- Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills, reduce hormone fluctuations and minimize symptoms. However, this is only the most viable option if women do not want to conceive.
- Laparoscopic surgery can serve a two-fold purpose of diagnosing and/or treating endometriosis. It is the only definitive diagnostic tool to see endometriosis, as it often is out of view of an ultrasound. This surgery can sometimes simultaneously remove areas of endometriosis that could be affecting your fertility. This outpatient surgery uses a tiny lighted tube inserted through one or more tiny incisions in your abdomen, also known as “belly-button surgery.”
- Additional help can come in the form of IVF, which might be recommended by our Las Vegas reproductive endocrinologists, who use state-of-the-art technology to gain a foothold on your fertility.
Treating endometriosis on an individual level
Endometriosis is often underdiagnosed, and because it is not straightforward, it can cause significant challenges to those wanting to start or grow families. If you are experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, it is important to find someone who will listen to your concerns and treat you appropriately. Experienced reproductive endocrinologists at our Las Vegas fertility center consider each patient’s individual needs when weighing the best endometriosis treatments. Contact us to learn how our Las Vegas reproductive endocrinologists can help effectively treat endometriosis and put a priority on preserving or restoring your future fertility.
