If you’re experiencing pelvic discomfort and menstrual cramping, you may be one of the 11% of women between the ages of 15 and 44 suffering from endometriosis.The team at Interior Women's Health are here to help. With a convenient location in Fairbanks, Alaska, the team can evaluate your symptoms and recommend a treatment plan that’s right for you. Book an appointment through the online scheduling system or by calling the office directly.
Endometriosis is a painful process that occurs when the cells that line your uterus — known as endometrial cells — from outside your uterus. Depending on the severity, endometriosis can lead to scarring and infertility. Some areas where endometriosis is commonly found include:
Rarely does endometrial tissue spread to areas other than your pelvic organs, but it’s possible.
Many women who have endometriosis don’t experience any symptoms. For others, common symptoms include:
If you suspect you may be suffering from endometriosis, the team at Interior Women's Health can perform several tests to confirm a diagnosis. The tests include:
While these tests can give a good indication that endometriosis is present, surgery is the only way to know for certain. Our team at Interior Women's Health can perform a surgery known as laparoscopy, during which a tiny camera is inserted through your abdomen to look for signs of endometrial growth. Sometimes, a tissue sample is necessary to complete a diagnosis.
Depending on the severity of your condition, our team at Interior Women's Health will recommend one of several treatment methods. For mild cases, over-the-counter drugs are prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain. These are especially helpful for uncomfortable menstrual cramping. Although not a permanent fix, hormone therapy is a common treatment option. Hormone medication has been known to alleviate pain and slow endometrial tissue growth.
Surgery is another possibility. The team at Interior Women's Health has extensive experience treating endometriosis with surgery. Laparoscopic surgery — which utilizes small incisions and tiny cameras — can remove endometriosis growth. This surgery is less invasive than other options and preserves your uterus and ovaries. For more severe cases, a hysterectomy might be necessary. During a hysterectomy, your uterus, ovaries, and cervix are removed.
There are four main hormone therapy options available:
To learn more about hormone therapy options or to schedule an evaluation, schedule an appointment with our team at Interior Women's Health in Fairbanks, Alaska. You can book online or by phone.