What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a gynecological condition in which endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus, in areas like your ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the outer wall of your uterus.
During your menstrual cycle, endometrial tissue grows in the lining of your uterus in anticipation of pregnancy. When you don’t get pregnant, your body sheds the lining through menstruation.
With endometriosis, the displaced endometrial tissue builds up and breaks down just like the lining of your uterus, causing small amounts of bleeding in your lower abdominal area. Because it has no way to leave your body, over time, the displaced tissue causes inflammation, pain, and scarring.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Endometriosis symptoms vary in type and severity. Some women don’t experience any symptoms at all.
Many women do have endometriosis symptoms though, and they include:
- Excessive pelvic pain during menstruation
- Heavy menstrual flow
- Pelvic pain during intercourse
- Pain when urinating or having a bowel movement
- Infertility
The amount of pain you feel may not accurately reflect the severity of your endometriosis. However, if you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with Dr. Khoo so she can find and treat the source of your pain.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Dr. Khoo conducts an in-depth evaluation when you come in to see her with concerns about endometriosis. To confirm a diagnosis, she reviews your symptoms, gynecological history, and family history.
Then she conducts a physical and pelvic exam. She may also request lab work or ultrasound imaging to confirm or rule out other causes that may explain your symptoms.
Though she can diagnose endometriosis after a history and physical, Dr. Khoo may perform a diagnostic laparoscopy to confirm your diagnosis.
During this minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Khoo inserts a laparoscope (a thin flexible tube with a light and camera) through a small incision in your abdomen to evaluate your reproductive organs and look for displaced endometrial tissue. She may also take a tissue sample for testing.
How is endometriosis treated?
Dr. Khoo creates a personalized treatment plan for your endometriosis based on the severity of the disease, your symptoms, your future pregnancy plans, and your personal preference.
Treatment for endometriosis may include:
- A wait-and-see approach
- Over-the-counter pain or anti-inflammatory medication
- Hormone therapy
- Minimally invasive surgery to remove the endometrial growths
- A hysterectomy to remove the uterus
Dr. Khoo works closely with you to develop a plan that best meets your needs and then makes adjustments as needed.
For an individualized approach to your health and wellness, call the office or request an appointment using the online booking tool.
