The symptoms of endometriosis can coincide with some other conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts, fibroids, etc. It can also be mistaken for pelvic pain. To determine that the individual is experiencing the symptoms of endometriosis, the healthcare provider will conduct a pelvic examination manually and suggest some confirmatory diagnostic evaluation tests.
These tests will help determine whether the individual has endometriosis or they are experiencing the symptoms of some other problem. Once the signs and symptoms match the condition, and it is confirmed that the individual has endometriosis, the healthcare provider will begin an appropriate treatment. Let us see the types of tests that will be performed to rule out other disorders.
Diagnostic tests for endometriosis
According to the Mayo Clinic website, to confirm that the person has endometriosis, the healthcare provider will suggest some tests, that are as follows:
1 ) Physical examination
Any condition related to the female reproductive system will be checked by the gynecologist. They will perform a physical test wherein they will manually check the pelvic region with their fingers. They will apply pressure on different parts of the pelvis to see if the individual feels pain. By doing so, they will be able to get a hint that the individual is having some abnormalities such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, or scar tissues.
This is just a general test that will be conducted by applying gentle pressure to the pelvis. It is not helpful in determining any disorder. To identify the exact cause of the symptoms, the doctor will suggest a combination of several other tests.
2) Ultrasound screening
Ultrasound tests involve high-frequency sound waves,which generate clear and detailed images of the reproductive organs. The scanned images help in detecting cysts, fibroids, scar tissues, and any other abnormalities in the reproductive organs. It scans the insides of the reproductive organs.
The best thing about this test is, it is a non-invasive type of test or minimally invasive. With this test,the doctor will be able to confirm if the individual has endometriosis or has some other disorders related to their reproductive organs. The captured images will be extremely beneficial in identifying the root cause of symptoms and on that basis, the treatment will be given. In addition to this test, other tests like an MRI scan and laparoscopy will verify the test results.
3) Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
An MRI scan of the pelvis region will help the gynecologist to plan an appropriate treatment for endometriosis.The scan will show a detailed and clear picture of the deep insides of the reproductive organs. It is a very powerful tool that confirms the disorder.
The MRI device uses a non-invasive type of technology, which generates three-dimensional images of the organs. It utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves to create such clear images of the structures. The images will find the location of the endometrial implants and determine their size.
4 ) Laparoscopic test
Laparoscopy is an instrument with which this kind of test is also performed on the individual who is experiencing the symptoms of endometriosis. This test is conducted through an invasive method, wherein the instrument, that is laparoscope is inserted inside the body through an incision made in the lower belly region.
This incision is made surgically, and the instrument along with a tiny camera attached to it is inserted inside. The surgeon will conduct this procedure under anesthesia to numb the pain.With the help of the camera, the surgeon will look for abnormalities such as cysts, fibroids, cancers, scar tissues, etc. Once endometriosis is confirmed, treatment will follow.
Symptoms of endometriosis
- Pain during periods – This condition is known as dysmenorrhea. The person starts experiencing pain in their pelvis, lower back, and abdomen a few days before their menstrual cycle begins. The pain amplifies and becomes unbearable during periods and will continue till a few days after the end of menstrual periods.
- Pain during bowel movements – The pain may intensify during menstruating.
- Excessive bleeding – There may be events when the disorder can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Pain during sexual intercourse – Intercourse can be very painful during such a condition.
- Infertility – Those having endometriosis will face difficulties in getting pregnant. Endometrial implants will give rise to such difficulties that prevent conception.
If you are experiencing these symptoms then you must see a gynecologist immediately. It is a chronic condition, which is manageable with the help of medications or sometimes surgery. If it is left untreated, the symptoms will get exacerbated. So, to manage it well, one must get timely treatment, which will prevent the risk of sexual health complications and infertility.