Endometriosis is one of the most misdiagnosed, hard to recognize, and painful women’s health conditions, affecting one in every 10 women in the United States. Dr. Cindy Basinski and Dr. Rupal Juran of Basinski & Juran, MDs, in Newburgh, Indiana, are experts in the fields of gynecology and urogynecology, so they can accurately diagnose and treat endometriosis. If you live in Evansville, Indiana, or the surrounding area and suffer from this painful uterine condition, Dr. Basinski and Dr. Juran can help you can get relief and manage your symptoms effectively. Call or schedule an appointment online today.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a common condition that affects women and causes extremely painful periods. Although the exact cause is unknown, it happens when the tissue that lines the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus and becomes stuck over time. In most cases, endometriosis encompasses the ovaries, pelvic tissue, and bowels, but sometimes it moves beyond the pelvic region.
When endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds when you have your period. The problem is that this tissue remains trapped and can’t leave your body, like the lining of your uterus. This often causes intense pain during your period and even bowel or urinary disorders.
What causes endometriosis?
The exact cause of endometriosis isn’t known, but retrograde menstruation is considered to be the most likely culprit. This condition allows menstrual blood with endometrial cells to flow up into your fallopian tubes and into your pelvic cavity. The cells adhere to the surface of your pelvic organs and walls, where they continue to thicken during your menstrual cycle.
Other potential causes include:
- A lymphatic system dysfunction in which endometrial cells go to other parts of your body
- Surgeries like C-sections or hysterectomies that may cause endometrial cells to adhere to the area of your incision
- Immune disorders that allow endometrial tissue to thicken and bleed outside the uterus
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Extremely painful cramps during your period
- Heavy, long periods
- Bowel and urinary problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Chronic fatigue
- Painful sex
- Infertility
- Intense pelvic pain
How is endometriosis treated?
Once Dr. Basinski or Dr. Juran diagnose you with endometriosis, there are a variety of treatment options they can deploy, including:
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Hormone therapy like birth control pills
- Conservative surgery to remove the disease and preserve your uterus and ovaries
- A hysterectomy for severe cases to remove the uterus, cervix, and ovaries
Dr. Basinski and Dr. Juran take an individualized approach to your specific needs and health concerns. They talk to you one-on-one and explain your treatment options to help you get the most effective results.
If you have endometriosis, or you think you might, Dr. Basinski and Dr. Juran encourage you to call the office to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. You can also use the online scheduling tool.