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Almost every woman has experienced pelvic pain in her lifetime. It’s extremely common, but all of the possible causes mean that finding a diagnosis and effective treatment isn’t always easy.
At OB/GYN Specialists in Denton, Texas, Daniel McDonald, MD, and Marc Wilson, MD, are dedicated to providing quality care for women of all ages. When women come in with pelvic pain, one of the most common gynecologic conditions we see is endometriosis.
More than 11% of women have endometriosis, a condition that causes pelvic pain, inflammation, and menstrual cycle problems. If you’re tired of living with pelvic pain, take a few moments to find out if it could be due to endometriosis.
Your menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones, and it’s your body’s way of preparing for pregnancy. The cycle starts on the first day of your menstrual period, and the average menstrual cycle lasts 21-35 days.
The average period is 2-7 days. During your period, your uterus contracts and sheds its lining, which is called the endometrium. Endometrium, or endometrial tissue, makes up the menstrual blood you see during your period.
Uterine contractions and inflammation during your period can be painful, and about 80% of women experience menstrual cramps. But with endometriosis, the pain may not be limited to your period.
The pain with endometriosis develops because endometrial tissue grows outside your uterus. The tissue thickens and sheds just like the endometrium inside your uterus, but it can’t escape your body during your period.
Endometrial tissue can grow anywhere in your pelvic region, including your cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The tissue can block organ function and cause inflammation, which you feel as pelvic pain.
You may feel endometriosis pain at any time of the month, not just during your menstrual period. Additionally, some women experience painful intercourse due to pelvic organ inflammation.
Endometriosis is a common cause of pelvic pain, but It’s important to note that not every woman with endometriosis experiences pain. In fact, pain isn’t indicative of the severity of your condition. You may have a mild case of endometriosis with severe pelvic pain, or a severe case of endometriosis with no pain at all.
The only way to identify the cause of your pain is a comprehensive wellness exam. Dr. McDonald and Dr. Wilson specialize in diagnosing and treating endometriosis, and we’re here to help you recognize other signs and symptoms to watch for.
Along with pelvic pain, endometriosis can cause:
Our team takes a comprehensive look at your health to determine if you’re suffering from endometriosis. There’s no cure for the condition, but treatment options may include hormonal medication to regulate your menstrual cycle, or surgery in severe cases.
Stop living with chronic pelvic pain. Get a diagnosis and find relief with help from our team at OB/GYN Specialists. Call us at 940-202-0566 or send us a message online now.
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