Females with endometriosis experience intense pain in the pelvic region. The reason for pain around the pelvis can be multiple. One cannot tell whether the pain is occurring due to endometriosis or some other condition such as fibroids, cancer, menstrual cramps, cysts, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.
To confirm that the individual is experiencing the symptoms of endometriosis, the healthcare provider will suggest some diagnostic tests for evaluation. Once the reports confirm the person has endometriosis, the healthcare provider can begin the suitable treatment.
Diagnosis of endometriosis
According to the Mayo Clinic website, your healthcare provider will suggest you get some general tests done, which are as follows:
Pelvic examination – During this test, your healthcare provider or gynecologist will manually check your pelvis. They will gently apply some pressure around your womb area, and see if it causes pain. They will check for abnormalities by examining your reproductive organs by inserting their fingers inside. They will check for cysts, fibroids, and scar tissues to rule out abnormalities.
A pelvic examination is the basic test, which will reveal much. After performing this, the gynecologist will proceed with further tests to become completely sure. A physical examination is followed with laparoscopy, ultrasound, or MRI scan tests, which will provide clear results of the diagnostic tests.
Endometriosis ultrasound – This test will generate a clear image of the pelvis, which is very helpful in confirming the person has endometriosis. The image can show the cysts that are formed because of the affected tissues that have gotten out of place from their actual site. The test will generate an image of the reproductive organs.
An ultrasound test uses high-frequency sound waves to capture a clear image of your reproductive organs to check for abnormalities such as fibroids, cysts, and scar tissues. This test will confirm if you have endometriosis or experiencing the symptoms of some other problems with your reproductive organs. An ultrasound test is necessary, as it will be very helpful for the gynecologist in deciding the further action of the treatment.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – Your healthcare provider will order an MRI scan of your pelvic region. The scanning will produce detailed images showing the insides of your reproductive organs. It can help your gynecologist in planning their further action in line with your treatment.
The MRI device produces such detailed images with the help of magnetic fields and radio waves. The image thus created will help in locating the endometrial implants and indicating their size.Before getting the MRI scan, you will be asked to not eat or drink anything for around 4 to 6 hours. The entire process will take up to an hour to complete.
Laparoscopy – This test is performed with the help of an instrument, known as a laparoscope, which helps in locating the endometrial implants and provides detailed information regarding their size, severity, and tissue damage. To perform this test, the surgeon will insert the instrument (laparoscope) inside your abdomen through a surgical incision. The incision will be performed under the region of your belly button.
They will conduct a biopsy to collect a tissue sample. This procedure is generally performed under anesthesia, which will numb the pain. The laparoscope with a tiny camera attached to it will be inserted inside through the incision to see the inside of the reproductive organs clearly. If the abnormalities are found, the surgeon will proceed to the next steps for treatment.
Endometriosis treatment
After performing a complete diagnostic evaluation, the gynecologist will be sure as to what kind of treatment will be best suited for your condition. The treatment will depend on various factors. The treatment for those wanting to become pregnant will differ from those who don’t. In some cases, there can be complications.
Different kinds of treatment will be suggested for managing the condition. Sometimes a combination of various treatments will be given to improve the condition. Types of treatment for endometriosis are:
- Medications – The condition gives rise to pain and inflammation in the pelvic region. These symptoms can be managed very well with the help of prescription and non-prescription medications. Such medications alleviate the pain and inflammation and provide relief.
- Hormonal therapy – Hormonal fluctuations can worsen the endometriosis pain. To balance the hormone levels, your healthcare provider will suggest this therapy, which will alleviate the pain and discomfort.
- Surgery – Surgical procedures such as conservative surgery and hysterectomy will be suggested for two different scenarios. Conservative surgery will be best suited for those who want to remain fertile andbecome pregnant. While, those individuals with menopause will be suggested with hysterectomy, which involves the removal of reproductive organs.