Endometriosis surgery improves quality of life and fertility outcomes for our patients
More than 6.5 million women in this country struggle with endometriosis, a common disorder in women of reproductive age. Because many women don’t realize they have endometriosis until they have problems conceiving, it’s important to understand how the condition is diagnosed, as well as available endometriosis treatment options. David T. Vandermolen MD, MS, our Northern Louisiana fertility surgeon, stays ahead of the latest developments in reproductive medicine, so he can offer advanced fertility treatments including endometriosis surgery.
What is endometriosis?
At least 11 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 44 suffer from endometriosis. Occurring when the reproductive lining tissue grows outside the uterus, endometriosis can cause pain, irregular menstrual cycles and infertility problems.
The tissue often attaches to the ovaries, fallopian tubes and pelvic region, which can lead to adhesions and scarring. During a menstrual cycle, the tissue reacts to the female hormones just like the uterine lining does, but it has no way to exit the body like the uterine lining does during a period. This creates a variety of reproductive issues.
Identifying the signs of endometriosis
Some women have endometriosis without any symptoms, but it can still cause problems once they try to conceive. Other women have severe symptoms, but very little impact to their reproductive systems. There are several common symptoms of endometriosis to watch for.
- Painful menstrual cycles
- Discomfort during sex
- Irregular bleeding
- Pain with urination or bowel movements
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Confirming a diagnosis and starting endometriosis treatment
To identify endometriosis, Dr. Vandermolen may ask about symptoms, conduct a physical exam, perform an ultrasound, and order MRI imaging. After confirming the diagnosis, our Northern Louisiana fertility surgeon will explain the available endometriosis treatment options.
Generally, treatment involves medication and/or endometriosis surgery. It’s important to know that most of the common hormone therapies used to treat endometriosis reduce or eliminate the ability to conceive while taking the medications.
Understanding endometriosis surgery
When hormone therapy doesn’t work, or if patients have infertility issues, Dr. Vandermolen will likely recommend endometriosis surgery. With conservative endometriosis surgery, our Northern Louisiana fertility surgeon can remove the implanted tissue while still preserving the ovaries and uterus.
Typically, Dr. Vandermolen achieves optimal results by performing the endometriosis treatment laparoscopically, so he can see the tissue and remove it at the same time. In some cases, you may need additional treatments because the tissue growth can reoccur.
At ArkLaTex Fertility, Dr. Vandermolen offers advanced diagnostics and proven infertility treatments, including endometriosis surgery. If you are having trouble getting pregnant and suspect endometriosis, we can assist you. Call our office to schedule an appointment to discuss endometriosis treatment options.