Endometriosis Specialist

Hawaii Women's Healthcare -  - Obstetrics & Gynecology

Hawaii Women's Healthcare

Obstetrics & Gynecology & Aesthetic Specialists located in Honolulu, HI

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, one out of every 10 women in their childbearing years will be diagnosed with a painful condition called endometriosis. The caring medical team at Hawaii Women's Healthcare, located in Honolulu, helps women suffering from this debilitating condition. If you are experiencing extreme pelvic pain, book an appointment at Hawaii Women's Healthcare, so that the doctors can get you back to feeling like yourself again. Book online or call today.

Endometriosis Q & A

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a gynecological condition that occurs when the tissue lining the uterus — called endometrial tissue — grows outside the uterus. Although the displaced tissue or lesions can form in many parts of the body, it is most often found in the pelvic cavity, particularly in the:

  • Ovaries
  • Fallopian tubes
  • Peritoneum or lining of the abdominal cavity
  • Behind the uterus
  • Outer surfaces of the bladder, intestines, and rectum

Although endometriosis is treatable, it’s a leading cause of infertility. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, nearly 40% of women with infertility suffer from endometriosis. Infertility occurs when inflammation caused by endometriosis damages the sperm or egg, or disrupts their movement through the fallopian tubes and uterus. If left untreated, endometriosis can result in severe scar tissue, which can completely block the fallopian tubes.  

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Pelvic pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis although the intensity of the pain varies from patient to patient. Other symptoms include:

  • Painful intercourse
  • Intense cramping and pain before and during your menstrual cycle
  • Painful urination or bowel movements
  • Heavy bleeding between periods
  • Lower back pain or migraines while your period
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy

How is endometriosis treated?

Since the complications from endometriosis increase in severity over time, you should seek treatment as early as possible. This is especially important if you want to have children. The medical staff at Hawaii Women's Healthcare, located in Honolulu, commonly treats endometriosis with medication, surgery, or a combination of both options.

Medications can address the pain and stop the spread of new lesions, but can’t cure the lesions that have already formed. Surgically removing these lesions can address the pain as well as improve your fertility. In the most severe cases, pain can return even after surgical treatment. In these circumstances, a hysterectomy may be the best course of action.

The doctors at Hawaii Women's Healthcare are sensitive to the needs of their patients and develop treatment plans based on restoring health and relieving pain. If you think you may be suffering from endometriosis, contact Hawaii Women's Healthcare, conveniently located in Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children in Honolulu. Book your appointment online or call today.