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endometriosis
Endometriosis Testing near New Orleans LA
Endometriosis is a common condition in which the tissue that makes up the lining of your uterus grows in other places in your abdomen. This can cause chronic pelvic pain and heavy periods.
The Fertility Institute can help people around New Orleans, Louisiana, find relief from endometriosis pain and symptoms. It all begins with a diagnosis.
Endometriosis Symptoms
According to the American College of Gynecologists, endometriosis affects one in ten women of reproductive age.1 Endometriosis is a complex condition with a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common include:
- Long-term pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Pain during bowel movements or urination
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or spotting
- Infertility
The locations of the endometrial tissue outside of your uterus can affect where you might experience pain. If it is near your bowel or bladder, you may have pain when going to the bathroom.
You may also experience bloating or fatigue, particularly around your period.
How Does Endometriosis Get Diagnosed?
If you have one, your fertility specialist or OBGYN can help with the diagnostic process. An endometriosis diagnosis will begin with a review of your medical history and family history. This review helps your provider better understand what you’re experiencing and assess genetic risk factors. Your provider will also recommend a pelvic exam to detect any cysts or adhesions.
The most definitive method for diagnosing endometriosis is laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a camera through small incisions in the abdomen. Laparoscopic procedures typically allow you to go home the same day and offer shorter recovery periods. This procedure allows your provider to assess your pelvic area to find, biopsy, and remove adhesions. A biopsy can confirm if endometrial tissue is present somewhere outside your uterus.
Endometriosis and Infertility
Endometriosis can affect your fertility. The adhesions and cysts caused by endometrial tissue growing outside of the uterus can make it more difficult to get pregnant. Complex endometriosis can even lead to infertility.
Some people find out they have endometriosis during a fertility assessment. If you’ve been struggling to conceive and have any of the symptoms discussed above, endometriosis may be the cause.
It is still possible to conceive when you have endometriosis. Our fertility specialists can create a personalized treatment plan that helps you grow your family.
Endometriosis Treatments
Endometriosis can be managed and treated. Treatment can reduce your pain and help you get pregnant if that is your goal. There are several treatment options, including:
Birth Control
Some estrogen and progesterone-only birth control options help you have lighter or less painful periods.
Hormone Medications
Hormone medications can stop your body from producing hormones that cause you to have your period. This relieves pain. You may have the occasional menstrual cycle, or your cycles may stop entirely for as long as you’re on this medication.
Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial adhesions and cysts. Using small incisions and specially crafted tools, your provider can see inside your abdomen and identify endometriosis. Removing it will reduce your pain and improve your fertility.
Once the surgery is complete, you can pursue fertility assistance options such as in vitro fertilization or intrauterine insemination if your fertility specialist has recommended that.
On staff at the Fertility Institute is Dr. Stacey Scheib, a surgeon who specializes in Minimally Invasive Gynecological Surgeries (MIGS), including fertility surgeries and complex gynecological surgical needs, as well as complex cases of endometriosis and pelvic pain. Dr. Schieb is the only focused practice designated MIGS surgeon on the Gulf Coast and has earned national attention for her single-incision laparoscopy.
Discuss Endometriosis Testing and Treatment with Your Fertility Specialist
If you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, The Fertility Institute in New Orleans, LA, can help. We can conduct endometriosis testing and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your results. Request an appointment at The Fertility Institute to talk about endometriosis testing today.
Need Help with Financing Your Treatment Plan?
We provide various financing options to help make your reproductive journey as affordable as possible. Learn more about the resources available to you.