Endometriosis: Symptoms and Treatment

If you’re suffering from endometriosis in Hoffman Estates, IL, Dr. Fred Duboe, Dr. Gail Gerber, and Dr. Abby Seruya of Northwest Associates For Women’s Healthcare can help you find effective relief from your symptoms.

What Is Endometriosis?

The uterus is lined with tissue called the endometrium. Sometimes, a type of endometrial tissue forms on the outside of the uterus on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other areas. This is referred to as endometriosis. It’s a fairly common condition, affecting up to ten percent of women ages 25 to 50 in the United States.

What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?

Endometriosis can cause several painful and uncomfortable symptoms, including those listed below.

• Intense menstrual cramps that can cause pain in the back
• Pain during sex
• Chronic fatigue
• Excessively painful bowel movements and urination while on your period
• Unexplained gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
• Inability to have children
• Abnormally heavy periods or bleeding and spotting when not on your period

How Can It Be Treated?

There is no cure for endometriosis in Hoffman Estates, IL, but there are ways to manage the symptoms. At Northwest Associates For Women’s Healthcare, Dr. Duboe, Dr. Gerber, or Dr. Seruya will develop a treatment plan that suits your symptoms and your needs. This plan can include the following options and more.

• Medication: In some cases, over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, can help manage the pain. In other cases, a stronger prescription may be required. Also, other medications can be provided to help address gastrointestinal issues and other symptoms.
• Hormonal therapy: There are several types of hormonal therapy that can help. Some prevent ovulation or the production of ovarian hormones. Others help decrease menstrual flow. If your symptoms call for it, the experts at Northwest Associates For Women’s Healthcare will provide the hormone therapy you need.
• Surgery: In some cases, the tissue or lesions can be destroyed with a small incision and heat. Your doctor will discuss this option with you if they feel it’s a viable choice.

You don’t have to live with the pain of endometriosis in Hoffman Estates, IL. Take control of your symptoms by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Duboe, Dr. Gerber, or Dr. Seruya at Northwest Associates For Women’s Healthcare at (847) 884-1800.