Patients suffering from endometriosis often require care from more specialized medical professionals. Before we address what doctors to see, let’s start with some basic facts about the nature of the disease and the extent of its influence:
What is Endometriosis:
Endometriosis is a chronic and often debilitating condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, it can lead to excruciating pain, infertility, and various complications. If you suspect you may have endometriosis due to symptoms such as severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, and fertility issues, seeking prompt medical attention is essential. However, for more than 25% of endometriosis patients, the symptoms are silent, that is no obvious symptoms.
Diagnosing Endometriosis:
The gold standard is laparoscopic surgery which uses an instrument with a camera to inspect the endometrium and surrounding tissues while at the same time removing polyps and endometriosis affected tissue.
Prevalence: Endometriosis is estimated to affect approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, which translates to around 176 million women globally.
Delay in Diagnosis: On average, it takes 7 to 10 years for a woman to receive a definitive diagnosis of endometriosis from the onset of symptoms. This delay is due to various factors, including the lack of awareness, misconceptions about menstrual pain, and the complexity of the condition itself.
Age of Onset: Endometriosis typically begins during the reproductive years, with most women experiencing symptoms between the ages of 25 and 35. However, it can also occur in teenagers and women approaching menopause.
Impact of Endometriosis on Fertility: Approximately 30% to 50% of women with endometriosis may experience infertility. The presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus can lead to adhesions, scarring, and structural changes in the reproductive organs, making it challenging for some women to conceive. While there are many possible reasons for women experiencing unexplained infertility, undiagnosed endometriosis is among the causes.
<iframe src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1l79AFaPRJ6_KD1idUckBSTx9FJrfIygp/preview" width="640" height="480" allow="autoplay"></iframe>Endometriosis Symptoms:
The symptoms of endometriosis can vary widely from woman to woman, but the most common ones include pelvic pain, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), and chronic pelvic pain. Again, overt symptoms are just a guide to potential endometriosis. Many women have no symptoms.
Family History of Endometriosis: Women with a first-degree relative (mother, sister) who has endometriosis are at an increased risk of developing the condition themselves. This suggests a potential genetic predisposition to endometriosis.
Impact on Daily Life: Endometriosis can have a significant impact on a woman’s quality of life, leading to physical, emotional, and social challenges. The chronic pain and other symptoms may interfere with daily activities, work, and relationships.
Recurrence after Surgery: Even after surgical treatment, endometriosis may recur in some cases. The likelihood of recurrence depends on factors such as the extent of the disease, the skill of the surgeon, and postoperative management.
Associated Health Conditions of Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis may be at a higher risk of certain other health conditions, such as certain types of ovarian cancer (endometrioid and clear cell carcinoma) and autoimmune disorders.
Economic Burden: Endometriosis imposes a significant economic burden on individuals and healthcare systems. The costs associated with diagnosis, treatment, and loss of productivity can be substantial.
Endometriosis Physician Care
Choosing the right doctor can significantly impact your journey towards an accurate diagnosis of endometriosis, management, and ultimately, improved quality of life. In this article, we will explore the various medical professionals involved in diagnosing and treating endometriosis and guide you in selecting the most suitable specialist for your individual needs.
While our description of the role of each professional is outlined, you MUST own this process. One of the key reasons it takes 7-10 years to get diagnosed is because too many doctors are not trained or unwilling to dig deeper into this diagnosis. So if you are not getting the workup you want, find another doctor!
Primary Care Physician (PCP)
When experiencing concerning symptoms, your primary care physician should be your first point of contact. They play a crucial role in initial evaluations and may rule out other potential causes for your symptoms. Your PCP may conduct a physical examination, review your medical history, and order basic tests, such as blood work and imaging, to eliminate other possibilities. While they can provide valuable insights, they may not possess specialized knowledge of endometriosis.
Gynecologist
A gynecologist is a medical doctor with specialized training in women’s reproductive health, making them a logical next step in your journey. They have a deeper understanding of the female reproductive system and its associated disorders, including endometriosis. Your gynecologist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and may perform a pelvic exam to identify any physical abnormalities or masses.
If endometriosis is suspected, your gynecologist may recommend imaging studies, such as transvaginal ultrasound or MRI, to visualize any endometrial lesions or adhesions. In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure called laparoscopy may be necessary to definitively diagnose endometriosis. This outpatient surgery allows the doctor to view the pelvic organs directly and take tissue samples for examination.
Gynecologic Surgeon
When dealing with a complex case of endometriosis, a gynecologic surgeon may be necessary. These specialists have advanced training in performing intricate surgeries and managing conditions that involve the female reproductive system. If your gynecologist suspects severe endometriosis, extensive adhesions, or organ involvement, they may refer you to a gynecologic surgeon for further evaluation and treatment. There is a group of gynecologic surgeons that just specialize in endometriosis. We highly recommend this group sooner than later!
Reproductive Endocrinologist
Endometriosis can significantly impact fertility, making a reproductive endocrinologist a crucial member of your healthcare team if you are trying to conceive. These specialists focus on diagnosing and treating hormonal imbalances and fertility issues, and uncovering the causes of unexplained infertility. A commonly used test during your work-up is ReceptivaDx https://receptivadx.com/. This test specifically looks for inflammation on the uterine lining most often associated with endometriosis. Once detected. REs can offer treatments and assisted reproductive technologies to increase the chances of successful conception in individuals with endometriosis.
Pain Management Specialist
Persistent pain is one of the hallmark symptoms of endometriosis. If your pain is difficult to manage or significantly affects your daily life, a pain management specialist can provide valuable assistance. These experts are trained in evaluating and treating various types of chronic pain conditions, including endometriosis-related pain. They can create a personalized pain management plan that may include medications, physical therapy, and other interventions to help you find relief and improve your overall well-being.
Gastroenterologist
In some cases, endometrial lesions can affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, leading to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. If your symptoms suggest possible GI involvement, a gastroenterologist can evaluate and manage any related issues. They may perform additional tests, such as endoscopy or colonoscopy, to assess the GI tract and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Urologist
Similarly, endometriosis can impact the urinary system, causing symptoms like painful urination or blood in the urine. If you experience such urinary issues, a urologist can help diagnose and manage potential complications affecting the urinary tract. They have specialized expertise in treating conditions that affect the kidneys, bladder, and urinary passages.
Endometriosis is Serious
If you suspect you have endometriosis, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. The right doctor can make all the difference in accurately diagnosing and effectively managing this complex condition. Start with your primary care physician and then consult with a gynecologist for a thorough evaluation. Depending on your individual case and specific symptoms, you may require assistance from additional specialists such as gynecologic surgeons, reproductive endocrinologists, pain management specialists, gastroenterologists, and urologists. Remember that endometriosis is a manageable condition with the right medical support, so don’t hesitate to reach out for the care you need to improve your quality of life.