Endometriosis Could Be Causing Your Painful Periods
Menstrual periods have long been considered a normal inconvenience, but for some women, they bring more than just mild discomfort. If your period involves excessive bleeding, debilitating cramps, or pain that interferes with your daily life, you may be experiencing more than just a difficult cycle.
Endometriosis, a condition affecting up to 10% of reproductive-aged women, could be the cause. This article will explore what endometriosis is, its symptoms, how it affects menstruation, and when to seek medical care. We will also discuss how doctors diagnose and treat endometriosis to help you find relief.
If you are experiencing severe menstrual pain or other symptoms of endometriosis, schedule an appointment with the specialists at Maiden Lane Medical in New York City. Our experienced team is here to help you find answers and effective treatment options.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue, similar to the lining of the uterus, grows outside the womb. This misplaced tissue most commonly affects the reproductive organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and outer surface of the uterus, but it can also spread to other areas of the body.
Unlike normal uterine lining, this tissue has no way to exit the body, leading to inflammation, scar tissue, and significant pain.
Endometriosis Symptoms
Listed below are some of the common symptoms of endometriosis.
- Chronic pelvic pain – Persistent pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Painful periods – Severe cramping that disrupts daily activities
- Painful intercourse – Pain during or after sexual activity
- Heavy periods – Excessive menstrual bleeding that requires frequent pad or tampon changes
- Painful bowel movements or urination – Symptoms often mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Infertility – Difficulty getting pregnant due to reproductive organ involvement
How Long Do Endometriosis Periods Last?
For women with endometriosis, periods can last longer than usual and be significantly heavier. While a typical menstrual cycle involves losing about 6-8 tablespoons of blood, endometriosis-related bleeding may exceed 16 teaspoons.
This excessive blood loss, along with the associated pain, can make it difficult to engage in normal activities. Some women experience spotting between periods or prolonged menstrual cycles that last beyond the typical 4-7 days.
When to See a Doctor
Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. While mild menstrual discomfort is common, severe pain that prevents you from attending work, school, or social events is not normal. You should schedule an appointment with a doctor if:
- Your periods are unusually heavy and prolonged
- You experience severe pelvic pain outside of menstruation
- You have difficulty getting pregnant
- You experience painful intercourse or pain during bowel movements
Endometriosis can have long-term effects, including infertility and chronic pain, so early diagnosis is crucial.
How a Doctor Can Help
At Maiden Lane Medical, our team of specialists takes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to diagnose and treat endometriosis. Our team includes pain management physicians, surgeons, physical therapists, urologists, and nutritionists, all working together to optimize pain control and improve quality of life.
Diagnostic Methods:
- Pelvic exam – A manual examination to detect abnormalities
- Imaging tests – Ultrasounds and MRIs to assess the reproductive organs
- Laparoscopy – A minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to examine the pelvis, diagnose, and remove endometriosis tissue.
Endometriosis Treatment Options:
- Hormonal therapy – Birth control pills, patches, or an intrauterine device (IUD) to help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce symptoms
- Pain management – Prescription and over-the-counter pain medications to alleviate discomfort
- Minimally invasive surgery – Laparoscopic excisional surgery to remove endometriosis tissue, particularly for severe cases
For women experiencing infertility due to endometriosis, specialized treatments can improve the chances of conception. Our expert team is skilled in both medical and surgical techniques to restore reproductive health.
You Don’t Have to Suffer—Find Relief at Maiden Lane Medical
If painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, or other symptoms of endometriosis are affecting your life, help is available. The experienced team at Maiden Lane Medical in New York City offers expert care to diagnose and treat endometriosis and menstruation. Don’t let pain control your life—schedule an appointment today to take the first step toward relief!
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