Endometriosis Treatment in St Petersburg, FL

It’s normal for a woman to feel some discomfort or cramping during her period, but if the period pain is extreme and much worse than usual, they may be experiencing endometriosis. Honored as one of the Top 100 gynecologists in the U.S., Dr. Meena Jain has over 25 years of experience diagnosing and treating endometriosis for women at our gynecology office in St. Petersburg, FL.  If you are experiencing symptoms of endometriosis and would like to discuss your treatment options. please call (727) 343-2568 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

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What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a disorder in which your endometrium, the tissue that lines your uterus, grows in other parts of your pelvic region, such as the tissue that lines your pelvis, ovaries, or Fallopian tubes.

During your cycle, the endometrial tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds. When it has grown in other areas of your pelvis, the blood has nowhere to go, causing extreme pain. The excess tissue may also lead to cysts and scarring that may affect fertility.

Doctors aren’t certain of the exact cause of endometriosis, but there are risk factors, including:

• Getting your period at an early age
• Menstrual cycle lasting fewer than 27 days
• Not having children
• High exposure to estrogen
• Alcohol consumption
• Underweight
• Family history, especially mother or sister

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

In addition to pelvic pain, common symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Long painful periods
• Increased bleeding during menstruation
• Painful intercourse
• Discomfort during bowel movement and urination
• Infertility

Some women with endometriosis also experience an increase in fatigue, along with bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea.

Who should be treated for endometriosis?

Women of all ages can have and be treated for endometriosis. Women who are experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms should be seen for endometriosis.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

In addition to your history of symptoms and a pelvic exam, Dr. Jain may need to conduct testing to diagnose your endometriosis, such as:

• Ultrasound
• Laparoscopy

The ultrasound is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to generate an image of your uterus that may help Dr. Jain see the endometrial tissue. The laparoscopy is a surgical procedure in which she uses a laparoscope to view your reproductive organs through a small incision in your abdomen.

How is Endometriosis Treated?

Dr. Jain treats endometriosis with medication or surgery. She discusses all your options, and together you decide how best to manage the disorder and your symptoms.

Medication options include:

• Pain medication
• Hormone therapy

Surgical procedures vary and depend on your pregnancy plans. Dr. Jain may be able to take a conservative approach and remove as much of the endometrial tissue as possible through laparoscopic surgery without affecting your reproductive organs.

In severe cases of endometriosis, Dr. Jain may need to perform a total hysterectomy, which is the removal of your uterus, ovaries, and Fallopian tubes.

*Individual results may vary