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

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

The truth is, the medical community is not certain about what causes endometriosis. However, we do know that it is not contagious or infectious, meaning you can’t transfer it to anyone else. That includes your sexual partners and any children you may have.

There is some evidence that endometriosis could be hereditary, though more research is necessary to know for sure. Thankfully, doctors today are listening to their patients and actively pursuing new insights about the underlying causes of this common medical condition.  

Research suggests that endometriosis is a progressive disease, meaning it tends to worsen over time. The most common way to classify the progression of endometriosis is in stages: 

• Stage I: minimal, with superficial implants (small wounds or lesions) and little to no scar tissue.

• Stage II: mild, with more implants deeper in the tissue.

• Stage III: moderate, with many deep implants, often accompanied by small cysts and bands of scar tissue

• Stage IV: severe, with widespread implants, extensive scar tissue, and larger cysts 

Women don’t always progress through these stages from one to the next. Furthermore, severe pain may not correspond with a severe stage. Your doctor will perform a thorough examination to determine the stage of your endometriosis and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Anything that aggravates inflammation can make your symptoms worse. Though professional endometriosis treatment is important to help you manage these symptoms, lifestyle changes can also help. Consider the following to help avoid triggering pelvic pain:

•Get plenty of exercise to increase endorphins and regulate estrogen 

•Avoid drinking too much alcohol

•Eat a diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids

•Avoid saturated fats and red meats, which can trigger inflammation

• Practice stress relief methods to reduce pain sensitivity

Currently, there is no cure for endometriosis. However, that doesn’t mean there is nothing we can do! Left untreated and unmanaged, endometriosis can significantly interfere with your quality of life. We can help you regain control, providing support, guidance, and treatments such as:

•Hormone therapy

•Prescription medications

•Surgical excision of endometriosis

Finding a support system is one of the most overlooked aspects of managing endometriosis. There are plenty of online resources, including support groups where you can share your experiences and questions with women who understand them firsthand. 

Of course, choosing a provider that will treat you with compassion and understanding is crucial. Dr. Gary B. Sullivan is committed to listening to his patients and partnering with them to deliver the care and resources they need. If you’re struggling with pelvic pain, or with doctors who haven’t provided the attention you deserve, now is the time to reach out to Statesboro Women’s Health and start your journey to a pain-free life.

Laparoscopic surgery was first introduced in the 1960s as an efficient, minimally invasive procedure to remove endometrial tissue, scars, and cysts. Since then, laparoscopic surgery techniques and technology have developed greatly. Today, this surgery is the most reliable, efficient, and innovative treatment option to diagnose and treat endometriosis, as well as prevent complications such as infertility. 

Undergoing laparoscopic surgery as a treatment for endometriosis can:

•Reduce the growth of endometriosis tissue on fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, and more

•Reduce the intensity of period cramps

•Minimize pelvic pain and painful urination

•Help you manage digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and bloating

•Reduce spotting between periods and pain during intercourse

Learn more about how laparoscopic surgery works and what to expect from it below. 

Laparoscopic surgeries are among the least invasive types of surgeries. During the surgery, you will be given a local or general anesthetic so that you won’t feel any pain.

Dr. Gary Sullivan, director of the Statesboro Women’s Surgery Center, will create a small incision in your abdomen, usually just under your belly button. 

He will then insert a tiny cannula through the incision and inflate the abdomen with gas so that the surgeon can better investigate your condition. Then, using a laparoscope with an integrated camera, he will remove endometriosis tissue via excision or ablation. 

Immediately after the surgery, you might feel pain in the lower abdomen and notice increased sensitivity in the areas around the scars. However, this pain should subside quickly, giving you lasting relief from the pain of endometriosis.

When you are getting ready for your laparoscopic surgery, Dr. Sullivan will give you precise instructions and will be available to answer any questions you might have. However, generally, you should:

•Avoid eating or drinking anything for the 8 hours leading up to the surgery

•Pack a few personal items in case your circumstances require you to stay at the hospital for longer than a few hours

•Make sure that a friend, family member, or partner can drive you home and stay with you after the procedure

•Avoid showering or taking a bath for 48 hours after the operation

Any side effects such as nausea should resolve within hours or days, and you should be able to resume your daily activities after 1-3 weeks of rest and recovery.

Laparoscopic surgery is one of the most efficient ways to treat endometriosis and help you regain your quality of life. Indeed, studies show that 60% of women who undergo this treatment report improved quality of life. 

At Statesboro Women’s Health Specialists, Dr. Sullivan might recommend this treatment if your endometriosis is causing severe pain, interfering with your daily life, or causing infertility. He is also prepared to recommend medicines, hormonal treatments, and holistic approaches to try if you’re not quite ready for surgery yet. No matter what you decide, take the first step toward a pain-free life by scheduling an appointment today!