Endometriosis Specialists in Chicago, IL
Helping You Better Understand Endometriosis
Learn more about endometriosis and how the treatment is possible.
Are you struggling with endometriosis? Perhaps you’re trying to get pregnant, but your endometriosis is making the process so much harder. While an endometriosis pregnancy isn’t uncommon, about a third of women find conception more difficult. At Reproductive Medicine Institute, we strive to provide treatment and support as you work to manage this condition. Our Chicago-based team boasts over 20 years of combined experience, and in that time, we’ve seen countless cases of endometriosis. No matter the severity of your condition or your fertility goals, we want to help.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a common condition that involves uterine tissue growing on other pelvic organs. Usually, the tissue grows into the fallopian tubes and ovaries, but in some rarer cases, it can grow on the intestines, bladder, and appendix. Endometriosis affects as many as one in ten women during their reproductive years. In some cases, painful symptoms begin at the same time as the first menstrual cycle.
What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?
While displaced uterine lining may not sound severe, it can cause significant pain and trouble conceiving a pregnancy. Everyone will experience the symptoms of endometriosis a little differently. Those diagnosed with this condition may notice a mix of the following symptoms:
- Painful periods
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Vomiting and nausea
- Periods that are heavier and longer than normal
- Painful ovulation
- Unexplained fatigue
- Painful intercourse
- Pain during bowel movements and difficulty urinating
- Spotting between periods
- Infertility
Consult with Us to Discuss a Diagnosis
Unfortunately, the causes of endometriosis aren’t fully understood. Some researchers theorize that increased estrogen levels, retrograde menstruation, and inflammation may play a role in endometriosis, but the jury is still out. Regardless, the team at Reproductive Medicine Institute is dedicated to getting you an accurate and speedy endometriosis diagnosis. We may conduct pelvic exams, ultrasounds, and biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.
Explore Your Treatment Options
Those who struggle with endometriosis have a few options when it comes to treatment. Some approaches address the symptoms, while others target the root of the problem—the misplaced uterine lining. Our team has spent years treating patients with the following methods:
- Natural Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy is effective at counteracting high estrogen levels, which overstimulate tissue growth. This method is a good first line of defense against endometriosis, as it’s both natural and non-invasive. However, not everyone finds continued relief using this treatment.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medication: If pelvic pain and menstrual cramps are taking a toll on your quality of life, anti-inflammatory pain medications may relieve some of your symptoms. These medications don’t address the core of the problem, but they can certainly make daily life much more comfortable.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which your surgeon will examine the internal organs and remove scar tissue. Most patients are left with little to no scarring, and recovery is quite fast. Usually, patients may return to normal activities after just one week.
- Hysterectomy: Some severe cases of endometriosis might call for more invasive surgery, such as a hysterectomy. This is the last resort, and we’ll exhaust all other treatment options before recommending this procedure.
How Our Endometriosis Specialists Can Help
At Reproductive Medicine Institute, our objective is to help you select the treatment that is most appropriate for you. With decades of combined experience under our belt, we can offer reliable, specialized advice about ways to manage endometriosis. Our overall goal is to remove or suppress endometriosis, delay its recurrence, control its progression, and address its symptoms—all without adversely affecting your fertility or exposing you to undesirable side effects. No one treatment will work for everyone, so we’re committed to trying all avenues to get you the relief you deserve.
Contact Our Team Today
Endometriosis and its symptoms can take a toll on your comfort and confidence. If you’ve noticed symptoms of endometriosis, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Reproductive Medicine Institute. We’re committed to finding an appropriate treatment that alleviates your painful symptoms and. Beyond endometriosis, our Chicago clinics also offer premier fertility treatments, such as in-vitro fertilization and genetic testing. Regardless of your circumstances, we’re here to help. Simply give us a call or fill out our contact form to set up your consultation.
