Endometriosis

More than 6.5 million women in the United States have endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining appears outside of the uterus. In Beverly Hills, California, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist Lia LaBrant, MD, FACOG, diagnoses and treats endometriosis to ease symptoms and, in some cases, restore fertility. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is an often-painful condition characterized by tissue similar to the uterus lining growing in other areas of the body. Endometriosis can affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries, tissues lining your pelvis, and areas beyond the pelvic organs. It can result in cysts, scar tissue, and bands of fibrous tissue, as well as unpleasant symptoms when left untreated.

Which symptoms can endometriosis cause?

The following are symptoms of endometriosis:

• Pelvic pain
• Infertility
• Painful periods
• Excessive menstrual bleeding
• Pain during sex
• Pain with urination or bowel movements
• Bleeding between periods
• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Back pain

Your symptoms can be mild to severe. They might appear right before or during your period. Some women with endometriosis have no noticeable symptoms.

Up to one in two women experiencing infertility could have endometriosis. 

What increases the risk of endometriosis?

Endometriosis risk factors include:

• Family history of endometriosis
• Being 20 to 40 years old
• Having never given birth
• Experiencing short menstrual cycles (fewer than 27 days between periods)
• Heavy periods
• Periods lasting longer than 7-8 days
• Going through menopause late
• Beginning your period at a young age
• Low body mass index (BMI)
• High estrogen levels

Medical conditions that prevent the body from eliminating blood flow during menstruation can also increase the risk of endometriosis. However, the cause of endometriosis isn’t fully understood.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Dr. LaBrant discusses your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, and medications to determine if you have endometriosis. She’ll complete a pelvic exam and order diagnostic tests, including an MRI, an ultrasound, or a laparoscopy with a biopsy. (A laparoscope is a thin, lighted tube with a camera that needs only the tiniest of incisions to explore the body’s interior.)

How is endometriosis treated?

Your personalized endometriosis treatment plan can include:

• Medication
• Dietary supplements
• Birth control or other hormonal options
• Laparoscopic surgery
• Hysterectomy (removal of your uterus)
• Fertility treatments 

During laparoscopic surgery, Dr. LaBrant makes a tiny incision and removes displaced endometrial tissue. This often eases symptoms and can boost fertility. 

The best treatment for you will depend on how severe your endometriosis symptoms are and if you want to become pregnant in the future. Dr. LaBrant will follow up to ensure lasting relief and monitor your condition.

Schedule an endometriosis evaluation with Lia LaBrant, MD, by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.