Endometriosis
What is endometriosis?
The lining of your uterus sheds every month during your period. If you fall pregnant, the embryo grows in the lining. Endometriosis is when the cells in the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) grow outside of it.
Endometriosis commonly occurs in the ovaries, as well as the areas in the front, back, or sides of the uterus. When endometriosis forms a cyst on the ovary, it is called a ‘chocolate cyst’ or endometrioma. Endometriosis can also occur on the surface of the bowel or bladder.
Endometriosis can cause ongoing pelvic pain and irregular periods. Pain from endometriosis tends to be worse before or during periods. The condition can also cause pain during or after sex, pain when passing urine or having a bowel movement – especially during a period.
Endometriosis can block your fallopian tubes and cause scarring which might make it more difficult for you to get pregnant.
Our treatment options for endometriosis
There are several treatment options that Dr Hong can offer for endometriosis. Your treatment will depend on the severity of your condition and any other unique considerations – whether you’re planning to fall pregnant in the future, for example.
Common endometriosis treatments can include:
- Pain medication – to help relieve ongoing, debilitating pain
- Hormonal treatment – contraceptive pills, injection, implant, and IUD
- Surgical treatment – removal of the endometriosis tissue. The surgery, performed by Dr Hong, is often done with laparoscopy with the goal to remove all the endometriosis tissue. Cutting it out (excision) tends to be more effective than burning the tissue with heat.
