Things To Know About Diagnosis of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue outlining the uterus grows outside it to cause menstrual pain and even irregular cycles. It impacts the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, and the pelvis’s lining tissue. In this blog, we will understand in some detail about endometriosis diagnosis.
How to Diagnose Endometriosis?
Let us understand endometriosis; how is it diagnosed.
Your doctor will likely start with a physical examination to assess whether you might have endometriosis. They will ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing. Their focus will be on understanding the location and timing of any pain.
They will preferably perform the following endometriosis test to diagnose endometriosis:
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Pelvic exam:
Your doctor will feel your pelvic area with one or two gloved fingers to detect abnormalities. These abnormalities can be in the form of:
- Cysts on the reproductive organs
- Tender spots
- Nodules
- Scar tissue behind the uterus
Small areas of endometriosis can get overlooked unless a cyst has developed.
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Ultrasound:
This endometriosis and ultrasound imaging test uses sound waves to create pictures of the internal part of your body. A device called a transducer may be placed on your abdomen or inserted into your vagina (transvaginal ultrasound) to get a better view of your reproductive organs. While a standard ultrasound cannot definitively diagnose endometriosis, it can help identify cysts associated with the condition, known as endometriomas.
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):
This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of your organs and tissues. An MRI can help in surgical planning as the surgeon gets precise information about the size and location of endometriosis growths.
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Laparoscopy:
Sometimes, your doctor may refer you to a surgeon for a laparoscopy. This procedure allows the surgeon to look inside your abdomen for signs of endometriosis. The surgeon will make a small incision near your navel and insert a thin, lighted instrument called a laparoscope. Doing so allows them to see the extent and size of endometriosis growth, if any. If necessary, they may take a biopsy for further testing. With careful planning, the surgeon can often treat endometriosis alongside this procedure. Doing so will reduce the need for additional surgery.