During a diagnostic exam for endometriosis, you can expect a review of your medical history and a pelvic exam. Medical history may reveal patterns like painful periods or chronic pelvic discomfort. Share your symptoms in detail, from period pain to bowel discomfort and infertility. Here is what to expect during a diagnostic exam:
Preparing for Your Exam
Your doctor may ask you to fast the night before in preparation for diagnostic imaging tests. An MRI produces images of endometrial lesions in reproductive organs and tissues. You may need to take laxatives to clear your intestines for clear images. For an ultrasound, drink water beforehand to fill your bladder since this provides better sound wave transmission for imaging reproductive structures and organs.
Completing Diagnostic Procedures
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of endometrial tissue implants on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or other nearby organs. This helps identify cysts and growths that may indicate endometrial lesions. A transvaginal ultrasound gets closer images by inserting a wand into the vagina. Magnetic resonance imaging scans provide more detailed pictures of the spread and depth of endometrial lesions. These imaging tests guide doctors in planning treatments or minimally invasive surgical procedures.
Evaluating Treatment Options
For mild cases of endometriosis, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may be recommended for managing menstrual cramps and pelvic discomfort. Your doctor may prescribe stronger anti-inflammatories for moderate cases. Birth control pills can stop ovulation and reduce endometrial tissue growth each month. Progesterone pills may also shrink endometrial lesions by halting estrogen production, which fuels their growth. If infertility is an issue, surgery to remove lesions might help unblock fallopian tubes.
Undergoing Laparoscopy Procedures
Doctors may perform a minimally invasive surgery called laparoscopy. After sedation, a few small incisions are made in the abdomen. The abdomen is filled with gas to allow room for inserting a small tool called a laparoscope. The doctor can take out some of the endometrial growth for further testing. Most patients go home the same day to recover, as pain and discomfort can be managed with medications.
Managing Pain Relief
Certain endometrial procedures can relieve pain without pills. During a laparoscopy, surgeons may remove scar tissue responsible for cramping, bleeding, and pelvic discomfort. This can prevent lesions from causing nerve damage that results in chronic burning sensations. Removing endometrial lesions reduces the hormone activity from these tissues that stimulate uterine contractions, alleviating pain. These laparoscopic procedures target the origin of your pain.
Exploring Hormone Therapy
After diagnosis, some doctors can prescribe hormone therapies that shrink endometrial lesions. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists stop the body’s production of estrogen, which fuels the endometrial tissue growth cycle each month. Progesterone-only birth control pills or shots also halt estrogen production to shrink endometrial lesions. Hormone therapies can provide pain relief by targeting the disease at its source.
Schedule a Diagnostic Exam for Endometriosis
An endometriosis diagnosis helps doctors create an informed treatment plan. With knowledge about the disease and available treatments, you can make empowered choices for managing pain and preserving fertility. Surgical procedures, hormone therapies, medications, and lifestyle changes each contribute to your personalized treatment plan. Schedule a diagnostic exam today to restore your health.
