Author: Stephen Frausto, M.D., FACOG

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of pelvic pain, affecting approximately one in every 10 women of reproductive age. Its most common symptom is dysmenorrhea (painful cramps during menstruation); many women experience this endometriosis symptom, beginning with menarche, yet aren’t diagnosed with the disorder until many years later when trying to conceive. 

In women with endometriosis, cells lining the uterus grow abnormally outside of the uterus. When the lining of the uterus is shed during menstruation, these abnormal cells are also shed. However, the endometrial cells outside of the uterus have nowhere to go, which causes pain and discomfort. Over time, scar tissue may develop.

Does endometriosis cause infertility?

Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility in many women. Whether you receive treatment for your endometriosis symptoms at Arizona Associates for Women’s Health or not, you may choose to continue working through your condition with a fertility specialist in our office. You can learn more about our Fertility Care services here. 

What are common endometriosis symptoms?

In addition to infertility and pain and cramps around the time of menstruation, common endometriosis symptoms also include:

• Pain during or after sexual intercourse
• Excessive bleeding (heavy periods and/or bleeding between periods)
• Pain during bowel movements or urination

If you are experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a Tempe or Mesa gynecologist at Arizona Associates for Women’s Health.

What endometriosis treatments are available?

While there is no “cure” for endometriosis, therapies are available. Some women choose to undergo da Vinci endometriosis resection, a robot-assisted procedure that offers many benefits compared to traditional laparoscopy: low blood loss, small incisions, low rate of complications, and a short hospital stay. Some women elect to have a da Vinci hysterectomy for treating endometriosis symptoms. Novasure endometrial ablation is another option that may be available through your Mesa gynecologist. 

Schedule an Appointment With a Tempe/Mesa Gynecologist

Have questions about pelvic pain? At Arizona Associates for Women’s Health, our Tempe and Mesa gynecologists offer advanced treatment for pelvic pain caused by endometriosis. Care may be focused to provide symptomatic relief and improve opportunity for becoming pregnant. Learn more by calling 480-257-2700. Or, schedule your appointment online.

Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.