Endometriosis is far more common than some women may realize. In fact, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), about 1 in every 10 women in the US will develop endometriosis in their lifetime. Despite how prevalent it is, there is much that women may not understand about endometriosis and the impact that it can have on their reproductive health and wellbeing. Endometriosis is a condition in which uterine lining tissue grows outside the uterus.
There is a strong association between endometriosis and infertility in women as well as an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. That’s why it’s so important for women who experience endometriosis to be quickly diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. To help identify potential warning signs, our board-certified gynecologists recommend keeping an eye out for the following symptoms:
- Unusual pelvic pain, throbbing, and cramping that may begin before your period and extend several days into your period.
- Pain that occurs during or immediately after sex.
- Discomfort or pain during bowel movements or urination.
- Irregular bleeding in the form of heavier than normal periods or bleeding between menstrual cycles.
- Infertility or difficulty becoming pregnant.
- Regular nausea or vomiting, especially during menstrual periods.
While there is no cure for endometriosis, there are many ways to effectively manage its symptoms. We may recommend a variety of endometriosis treatment options including medications such as birth control pills, other hormone-based treatments, or surgery in some severe cases. For more information on endometriosis or if you would like to request an appointment with board-certified gynecologist Dr. Kristine Gould or our new Physician Assistant Nikki, please contact Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett today. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for more tips, news, and details on our upcoming health and wellness events.
