Endometriosis

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a gynecological condition in which tissue that’s like the type of tissue that lines the uterus, grows outside the uterus. It grows on other organs too, such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder and bowels. This misplaced growth causes inflammation, adhesion and scarring. Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition that affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age worldwide.

Dr. Felix Cohen and his team at Cohen Medical Practice (CMP) in Midtown NYC are dedicated to offering effective relief from endometriosis pain. They offer evidence-based and surgical options based on their deep understanding and extensive experience in dealing with this condition. This leading gynecology team is committed to helping you take control of your health through every stage of your life.

What Are the Different Endometriosis Stages?

Endometriosis develops in stages; each progressive stage showing greater extent and severity. Understanding endometriosis stages is crucial in formulating effective treatment and management of the symptoms. These stages are minimal, mild, moderate and severe.

The severity of symptoms depends on the stage, and you can also expect more intensive intervention with each greater level of the condition.

The stages have varying characteristics, such as:

• Minimal stage. The endometrial tissue is present in minimal areas. Symptoms include occasional pelvic pain and irregular periods.
• Mild stage. Endometrial tissue can be found in larger areas accompanied by chronic pelvic pain, heavy bleeding and sometimes infertility.
• Moderate stage. The endometrial tissue spreads to multiple areas including the bowel and bladder. The symptoms include severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, bowel and bladder pain.
• Severe stage. Endometrial tissue spreads outside the pelvic region to other areas including the pulmonary system. The symptoms are debilitating chronic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding and infertility.

What Are the Common Types of Endometriosis Pain?

Endometriosis pain ranges from mild to severe, also depending on the stage. In later stages, the pain is debilitating, disrupting productivity and your quality of life significantly. You might experience pain in the pelvic area and lower abdomen. It also includes menstrual-like cramps but of greater severity and intensity. Severe symptoms also are accompanied by back pain that seems to radiate from the abdomen.

There are different endometriosis pain management approaches that may involve a combination of drug and non-drug interventions.

Your New York CMP doctor may recommend pain management methods that include:

• Medication. This includes over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and prescription medicine like birth control pills to control hormones.
• Lifestyle changes. The doctor advises you on healthy habits to develop like exercising, proper diet and relaxation techniques to reduce pain levels.
• Alternative therapies. Massage, acupuncture and physical therapy also may offer some relief.

Can an Endometriosis Diet and Nutrition Help with Pain?

Proper nutrition and a balanced diet are helpful in managing endometriosis symptoms. A good diet helps alleviate pain, bloating and digestive discomfort. Your CMP doctor also advises you to avoid foods that exacerbate endometriosis symptoms, such as processed foods.

Making informed food choices becomes an integral part of effective treatment.

Some foods and nutrients to feature in an endometriosis diet include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids such as nuts, fatty fish and flaxseeds
• Antioxidants such as fruits and green leafy vegetables
• Probiotics in foods such as yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut
• Fiber rich foods such as legumes, grains and vegetables
• Vitamin D in fortified dairy and eggs

Is Hysterectomy an Option for Severe Endometriosis?

Hysterectomy is a viable option for treating severe endometriosis and in cases where other treatment options are ineffective. Hysterectomy surgery includes removing the uterus. It has been shown to alleviate pelvic pain and heavy bleeding. It also reduces risks of bladder and bowel obstruction.

Endometriosis after hysterectomy disappears and you find that the procedure significantly alleviates pain and symptoms as well as eliminating your menstrual cycle.

Through the team at Cohen Medical Practice, you receive comprehensive support after this surgical procedure, including:

• Pain management
• Hormonal interventions such as hormone replacement therapy
• Emotional support with introductions to support groups
• Advice on lifestyle changes

What Is Laparoscopy for Endometriosis?

Laparoscopy for endometriosis is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a small camera and surgical instruments to visualize and remove endometrial tissue. The surgeon makes small incisions on the abdomen to make the insertions.

• Laparoscopy is a proven and safe surgical option for treating different stages of endometriosis.
• It offers several advantages including:
  • Minimal tissue invasion, which reduces trauma
  • Lower risks of adhesions
  • Faster recovery
  • Less scarring

  How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility?

  There is a negative correlation between endometriosis and infertility, meaning a person with endometriosis may have difficulty conceiving. Adhesions and scarring in the pelvis obstruct the fertilization process. An endometriosis cyst can block sperm from reaching the egg. The inflammation in the ovaries also lowers the quality of your eggs.

  Hormonal imbalance also has a marked effect on disrupting fertility. You can still conceive, however, if the endometriosis is in the mild stage and you receive appropriate treatment.

  This is more so with assisted reproductive technologies such as:

  • • In vitro fertilization (IVF)
    • Artificial insemination
    • Laparoscopic surgery to remove scar tissue in the uterus

  There is hope for effective relief from endometriosis with today’s advanced medical technologies and resources. With the right treatment plan and support, you see significant pain relief and improved quality of life. But you need the right team for successful intervention.

  Cohen Medical Practice offers the compassionate and comprehensive care you seek. They have the proper understanding of the impact on women’s lives and the interventions that work. Contact Cohen Medical Practice today as a first step towards a healthier, pain-free future.