Author: Andrew Adamson, D.O.

Endometriosis is a painful condition that affects approximately 5 million women. This condition occurs when endometrial tissue (which lines the uterus) grows outside the uterine cavity. There are four stages of endometriosis (though different gynecologists may use different classification systems). Endometrial stages do not necessarily correlate with symptoms, but with the amount of growth outside the uterus.

Endometriosis Stage 1: Minimal

Patients with stage 1 endometriosis generally only have isolated implants outside the uterine cavity. There are no significant adhesions (scarred tissue) in stage 1 patients.

Endometriosis Stage 2: Mild

Stage 2 endometriosis is characterized by a few small implants along with some scar tissue or adhesions.

Endometriosis Stage 3: Moderate

Patients in this stage may have both superficial and deep implants. (“Superficial” implants are on the peritoneum – the lining of the abdominal cavity. “Deep” implants penetrate into this lining.) Your Mesa gynecologist may be able to see adhesions around the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Symptoms commonly appear during this stage.

Endometriosis Stage 4: Severe

In this stage, patients may have many implants with thick adhesions. Infertility is also a strong possibility at this stage.

What treatments are available for endometriosis?

There are several treatments available for this condition. At Arizona Associates for Women’s Health, you may have the option of:

• Endometrial Ablation: In this procedure, the surgeon ablates (destroys) the endometrium in order to reduce or stop menstrual flow entirely. This procedure can be done without any incisions. It may be done with heat, extreme cold, microwaves, radiofrequency or other techniques.
• da Vinci Endometriosis Resection: In this procedure, the endometrium is surgically removed using just a few tiny incisions (similar to laparoscopy).
• da Vinci Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus. Some women prefer to treat severe endometriosis with this procedure.

Plenty of non-surgical treatments may also be available to you. Talk to your Mesa gynecologist to learn more about the use of hormone therapies for endometriosis.

Pelvic Pain? Schedule An Appointment With a Mesa Gynecologist

To schedule an appointment with a gynecologist in Mesa, call 480-844-4702. You can also schedule your appointment and view doctor availability online.
Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.