Endometriosis - Treatment Options

Endometriosis may be treated with drugs and/or surgery in an effort to reduce or relieve symptoms and to eliminate or reduce the growths.

The treatment options include:

Medications

Pain medication - Over the counter or prescription drugs may be used to treat the pain resulting from endometriosis.

Hormonal therapy - Birth control pills or another category of drugs which block the production of estrogen called gonadtropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists may be prescribed. GnRH agonists have been used to reduce pain and make surgery easier by reducing the inflammation related to endometriosis.

Surgery

Laparoscopic ablation - The procedure is used to remove the top layer of tissue in an affected area.

Laparoscopic excision - Cutting out and removal of local areas of endometriosis.

The UPLIFT procedure (uterine suspension) - This procedure is not used to treat endometriosis. However, sometimes endometriosis causes scarring in the pelvic cavity pushing the uterus into a different position. The adhesions caused by endometriosis can displace the uterus from its normal position in the pelvic cavity and bind it into a tipped position. As a result, women may experience painful intercourse as the penis hits the displaced uterus and/or the endometrial implants. In these cases, a surgeon can remove the endometrial implants and the adhesions. The UPLIFT procedure can then be performed to reposition the uterus in a way that helps prevent it from adhering or sticking to the pelvic cavity again. When used in this way, the UPLIFT procedure can help reduce and/or eliminate pain from the penis striking the displaced uterus during intercourse and pain resulting from adhesions.

Uteral sacral nerve ablation - In this procedure the nerves running to the uterus are severed in an attempt to eliminate pain and cramping.

Presacral neurectomy (PSN) - In cases of severe pain, the sensory nerves leading to the pelvis are severed.

Hysterectomy - In severe cases of endometriosis, hysterectomy including removal of all growths and the ovaries may also be recommended. It should be noted that hysterectomy does not always eliminate endometriosis, because the lesions may not be confined to the reproductive organs.

Combinations of drug therapy and surgery are also used commonly.

Where to Find Further Information

Endometriosis can be a complex and puzzling disease, but many effective therapies are available. Please consult a doctor or health care professional for information on your specific condition. You may also visit the Endometriosis Association for further resources.