Endometriosis is a medical condition that affects millions of women worldwide, but it remains largely misunderstood. The condition occurs when endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing a variety of symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful periods, and infertility. If you’re experiencing moderate-to-severe pain caused by endometriosis and have had a surgical diagnosis, consider learning more about endometriosis research through the ELARIS EM-COC Study at Olympian Clinical Research by calling (727) 935-0508.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can cause a wide range of symptoms, some of which include:

Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is a common symptom, often experienced as aching, cramping, or sharp pain, which may be worse during menstruation.

Painful Periods

Known as dysmenorrhea, this can include severe cramping and discomfort before and during menstruation.

Heavy Bleeding

Women with endometriosis may experience heavy periods or irregular bleeding between periods.

Pain During Intercourse

Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, is another common symptom of endometriosis and may be felt as deep, radiating pain.

Infertility

Difficulty conceiving can be a result of endometriosis, as the condition may cause damage to the fallopian tubes or ovaries.

Causes of Endometriosis

While the exact cause of endometriosis remains unclear, several factors have been identified that may contribute to its development:

Retrograde menstruation: This occurs when menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity, which may cause endometrial tissue to grow outside the uterus.

Hormonal imbalances: Estrogen, a hormone that promotes the growth of endometrial tissue, may play a role in the development of endometriosis.

Genetics: A family history of endometriosis may increase a woman’s risk of developing the condition.

Immune system dysfunction: An impaired immune system may be unable to recognize and destroy endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus.

Diagnosing Endometriosis

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, as its symptoms often resemble those of other conditions. A combination of the following methods may be used:

Medical History and Physical Examination

A healthcare provider will review a patient’s symptoms and perform a physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam.

Imaging Tests

Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to identify endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Laparoscopy

This minimally invasive surgical procedure allows a healthcare provider to view the pelvic organs and confirm the presence of endometriosis.

Endometriosis Research: Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment

Endometriosis is a complex and often debilitating condition. If you experience moderate-to-severe pain caused by endometriosis and have had a surgical diagnosis for your endometriosis, we encourage you to learn more about the ELARIS EM-COC Study at Olympian Clinical Research. By participating in this study, you may contribute to the advancement of knowledge and treatment options for endometriosis, potentially improving the lives of millions of women worldwide.

To learn more about the ELARIS EM-COC Study and how you can participate, please call Olympian Clinical Research at  (727) 935-0508.