Endometriosis Diagnosis & Treatment | CARE Fertility Clinic Ottawa

Investigation Process

Endometriosis

The Basics

Endometriosis is a common yet treatable condition affecting over six million women worldwide. It is found in about 30% of women with infertility. With timely detection and treatment, endometriosis does not have to impact your fertility success.

Endometriosis & Pain

Endometriosis can be particularly frustrating because its symptoms vary widely. Some women may not even realize they have it, and those diagnosed with 'unexplained infertility' might actually have endometriosis. For others, pain is a significant symptom, ranging from moderate to severe. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management of the condition.

What Is Endometriosis?

In endometriosis, the endometrial lining, which typically sheds through the cervix during menstruation, grows in abnormal locations outside the uterus. Instead of exiting the body, this lining can flow backward through the fallopian tubes, where it may adhere to the ovaries and surrounding structures.

These misplaced cells continue to grow and shed each month, leading to local inflammation and scar tissue formation. Over time, untreated endometriosis can cause significant pain, infection, and even block the fallopian tubes and ovaries, which may hinder a woman's ability to conceive.

Endometriosis and Infertility

Many patients with endometriosis are led to their diagnosis through fertility testing, as it affects reproductive health.

It can:

Lead to scarring or adhesions in the pelvis involving the ovaries and Fallopian tubes
Damage or blocks Fallopian tubes and impedes the journey of the egg to the uterus
Cause collections of endometriosis on the ovaries, called ‘endometriomas’

Symtoms and Diagnosis

Some patients with endometriosis experience little to no symptoms, leading many women with 'unexplained infertility' to actually have endometriosis. If you do experience symptoms, we recommend consulting a fertility specialist for a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

Symptoms of endometriosis can include:

Infertility
Painful menstrual cramps or periods
Pain during or after sexual intercourse
Painful bowel movements
Lower back pain
Abnormal menstrual bleeding

How We Diagnose Endometriosis

Endometriosis cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone. A thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history and specific tests, is necessary for accurate diagnosis. Depending on your case, your doctor may recommend:

Pelvic Exam: To assess tenderness or potential endometriosis lesions.
Pelvic Ultrasound: To identify any abnormal growths or collections related to endometriosis.
Laparoscopy: An outpatient surgical procedure that definitively confirms the presence of endometriosis.

Endometriosis is classified into four stages—Minimal (Stage 1), Mild (Stage 2), Moderate (Stage 3), and Extensive (Stage 4)—based on the extent of scarring and diseased tissue observed during laparoscopy.

Your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to manage your symptoms and enhance your chances of a successful pregnancy.

Treatment Options

Successful treatment options include:

IVF

IVF is often recommended as a first-line treatment when endometriosis is causing infertility.

Laparoscopy

While severe pain can be an indication that endometrial growths are present, one of the most accurate methods of detection is through diagnostic laparoscopy, a minor surgical procedure, in this way, any endometriosis lesions can be easily identified and the endometriosis diagnosis confirmed.

During this time, we can also remove any endometrial tissue that may be present on your ovaries or fallopian tubes.

Oral Medications

Most medical approaches use medications that reduce your body’s estrogen production which, in turn, stops the growth of endometriosis. Pregnancy, however, is not possible while these medications are being used.