Endometriosis 101: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Endometriosis occurs when the same type of tissue that lines the inside of the uterus also grows on the outside, becoming what are known as endometrial implants. 

It is possible for some women to have endometriosis without chronic pelvic pain; however, many women experience endometriosis as a chronic disease that not only causes severe pain but fertility issues as well. It often takes years for endometriosis to be diagnosed because it is not a one-size-fits-all issue, with many women experiencing symptoms differently.

Currently, there is no cure for endometriosis. But many effective treatment options are available to relieve the chronic symptoms. Researching information and consulting a supportive, experienced doctor helps.

Endometriosis is one of the most common medical conditions causing chronic abdominal pain in women. Unfortunately, many women don’t seek treatment for their symptoms. We’re here to talk about those symptoms and how you can get support for endometriosis.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Pelvic pain is the most commonly reported symptom of endometriosis. The severity of pain varies and can radiate into the abdomen, back, and legs, though the severity of the pain is not an indicator of the severity of the condition. Often described as “cramp-like,” the pain is sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea and depends on where endometrial tissue has grown.

Locations endometriosis can grow include:

  • Fallopian tubes

  • Ovaries

  • Ligaments that support the uterus

  • Bladder 

  • Rectum

Women may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Severe period cramps

  • Chronic pelvic pain that comes and goes (throughout the menstrual cycle)

  • Painful urination 

  • Diarrhea or constipation 

  • Pelvic pain with exercise

  • Pain after a pelvic exam

  • Pain with intercourse 

  • Spotting or bleeding between periods

  • Bloating

Testing for Endometriosis

Chronic pelvic pain can have different causes, and endometriosis is often diagnosed when treatments for other possible conditions don't work. In women who don't have any symptoms, endometriosis is often discovered by chance, usually because they are having trouble getting pregnant.

For a diagnosis of endometriosis and other conditions that can cause pelvic pain, your doctor will ask you to describe your symptoms and the location of your pain as well as when it occurs.

Tests to check for endometriosis include:

  • Pelvic exam 

  • Ultrasound

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

  • Laparoscopy

Endometriosis lesions can be difficult to detect, especially when using non-invasive imaging techniques such as ultrasounds. A formal diagnosis of endometriosis typically requires laparoscopic surgery. 

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows your provider to view inside your abdomen. While under general anesthesia, your provider makes a tiny incision near your navel and inserts a slender viewing instrument (laparoscope), looking for signs of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Laparoscopy can provide information about the location, extent, and size of the endometrial implants. Your provider may take a tissue sample for testing. With planning, your provider can fully treat endometriosis during the laparoscopy so that you need only one surgery.

Treatment Options for Endometriosis

Treatment for endometriosis typically involves medication or surgery. The approach depends on how severe your signs and symptoms are and whether you hope to become pregnant.

Treatment options can include one or a combination of the following:

  • Pain medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

  • Hormonal contraceptives

  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) agonists and antagonists

  • Progestin therapy

  • Aromatase inhibitors

  • Laparoscopic surgery

  • Fertility treatment 

  • Hysterectomy

Are you experiencing Chronic Pelvic Pain? Make an appointment today!

Ultimately, when you suffer from chronic pelvic pain, you need an experienced physician who you can trust to listen to your symptoms and provide cutting-edge care. Dr. Sullivan of Statesboro Women’s Health Specialists has the experience and dedication to help you live your life free from endometriosis pain. Take back control of your life by reaching out today!

Dr. Gary B. Sullivan: Your Partner in Healthcare

Endometriosis can be frightening. Worse still, it can cause serious quality of life changes that impact your ability to perform daily functions and enjoy your life to the fullest. Dr. Gary B. Sullivan is here to listen and support you during treatment so you can reclaim your life from endometriosis. Schedule an appointment today at (912) 871-2000 or visit us online here. 


EndometriosisJennifer Sullivanpelvic pain, endometriosis, endometriosis treatment