What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outside of the uterus and other pelvic organs. It responds to monthly hormone changes, which can cause inflammation, scar tissue and pain. It is common in women of reproductive age.
What are the symptoms?
- Painful periods that get worse over time
- Pelvic pain between periods
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain with bowel movements or urination, especially during periods
- Heavy periods or bleeding between periods
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with your history and a pelvic exam, and may include ultrasound or other imaging. Imaging does not always show endometriosis, so a definitive diagnosis is sometimes made during laparoscopy, when the surgeon can see and sample the tissue.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment depends on your symptoms, age and whether you want to become pregnant. Options include pain relievers, hormonal treatments that reduce or stop periods, and surgery to remove endometriosis tissue and scar tissue. Surgery is often performed laparoscopically or with robotic assistance through small incisions.
What is recovery like after surgery?
Recovery after minimally invasive surgery is usually shorter than after open surgery. Many patients go home the same day and return to light activity within one to two weeks. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions.
When should I see a doctor?
Make an appointment if period pain keeps you from work, school or daily activities, if over-the-counter pain relievers no longer help, or if you have pain during sex or trouble becoming pregnant.
Schedule a consultation in Fort Lauderdale
To make an appointment with Women’s Surgical Specialists, call (954) 771-8888, Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:30 pm. Our office is at 2800 East Commercial Blvd, Suite 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, and we accept Medicare and most major insurance plans.
This page is general information, not medical advice. For a medical emergency, call 911.