Endometriosis Awareness Month: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time to shed light on a condition that affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. Despite its prevalence, endometriosis is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or overlooked, leading many women to suffer in silence. At Women’s Health Clinic in Douglas & Ocilla, GA, we are committed to educating and supporting women affected by this condition.

If you experience severe period pain, chronic pelvic discomfort, or fertility struggles, understanding endometriosis symptoms and treatment options can help you take control of your health.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs, causing inflammation, pain, and scarring.

Since this tissue responds to hormonal changes like the normal uterine lining, it thickens and sheds during the menstrual cycle but has nowhere to exit, leading to severe pain and other complications.

Common Signs & Symptoms

Endometriosis symptoms vary but often include:

✔ Severe menstrual cramps that don’t improve with over-the-counter pain relief

✔ Chronic pelvic pain, even outside of your period

✔ Pain during or after intercourse

✔ Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during your period

✔ Heavy or irregular periods

✔ Bloating, nausea, or fatigue

✔ Infertility or difficulty conceiving

If you experience these symptoms, seeking an OB-GYN evaluation is crucial for early diagnosis and management.

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Endometriosis can be challenging to diagnose, but early detection is key to managing symptoms. Your OB-GYN may recommend:

• Pelvic Exam – To check for abnormalities or tender areas.

• Ultrasound or MRI – Imaging tests to look for cysts or endometrial growths.

• Laparoscopy – A minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows direct visualization and biopsy of endometriosis tissue.

Since symptoms often mimic other conditions, a thorough OB-GYN evaluation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Endometriosis

There is no cure for endometriosis, but treatment options can help relieve pain and improve quality of life. Your OB-GYN may recommend:

1. Medications for Pain & Symptom Relief

• Hormonal Therapy – Birth control pills, patches, or hormonal IUDs can help regulate periods and reduce symptoms.

• Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Medications – These suppress hormone production to slow endometriosis growth.

• Pain Relievers – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage mild pain.

2. Minimally Invasive Surgery

• Laparoscopic Excision Surgery – Removes endometrial implants while preserving fertility.

• Hysterectomy (in severe cases) – Removal of the uterus may be considered for those with debilitating symptoms.

3. Lifestyle & Holistic Approaches

• Dietary Changes – An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce symptoms.

• Pelvic Floor Therapy & Gentle Exercise – Can improve mobility and reduce chronic pelvic pain.

• Stress Management – Yoga, meditation, and acupuncture may provide symptom relief.

When to See an OB-GYN

If you have severe period pain, infertility concerns, or symptoms affecting daily life, don’t wait to seek medical care. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

At Women’s Health Clinic in Douglas & Ocilla, GA, our OB-GYN specialists are here to provide compassionate care, diagnosis, and treatment options for endometriosis.

📞 Call Today to Schedule a Consultation: (912) 381-0985

🌐 Learn More & Book Online: womenshealthclinicga.com

This Endometriosis Awareness Month, let’s break the silence and empower women with knowledge and care. 💛