Endometriosis

What is it:

Endometriosis is diagnosed when the tissue that is similar to uterine lining, can grow outside of the uterus. Endometrial tissue growing in these areas does not shed during a menstrual cycle like healthy endometrial tissue inside the uterus does. The buildup of abnormal tissue outside the uterus can lead to inflammation, scarring and painful cysts. It can also lead to buildup of fibrous tissues between reproductive organs that causes them to “stick” together.

Symptoms:

It can cause severe pain in the pelvis and can even affect your bladder and bowel movements. It can cause complications while trying to get pregnant. The effects of endometriosis can travel and be present and felt throughout other parts of the body, not just the pelvic area. It can cause long-term pain and disruptions to your menstrual cycle.

Who can have it:

This condition is quite common for women and for individuals with a present uterus. It can occur as soon as a person's first menstrual period and can last until menopause. Endometriosis can also be genetically inherited. Research has not found a reason as to why cells leave the endometrium meaning there is no known cause. Endometriosis can cause symptoms of infertility, pelvic pain, gastrointestinal, gastro-urinary and pain during intercourse — all that deserve to be addressed. There are also no specific ways to prevent endometriosis. However, being aware of the symptoms and whether you could be at higher risk can help you know when to discuss it with a doctor.

Crescent Care Women's Health strives to change this broken model of care. By focusing on all of a patient’s symptoms as well as their desires, CCWH provides holistic care and long-term management.