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Endometriosis

Daniel Kushner, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology located in White Plains, NY & Queens, NY

Endometriosis is often overlooked as a possible cause of pelvic pain. It’s essential to have an extensive physical exam along with diagnostic testing to get a comprehensive look at what could be causing your discomfort. Dr. Daniel Kushner is dedicated to providing top-notch obstetric and gynecological care to women at his practice, Daniel Kushner, MD, in White Plains and Queens, New York. To learn more about endometriosis, call or book an appointment online.

Endometriosis Q & A

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue that typically lines the inside wall of your uterus starts to grow outside of the uterine wall. Areas affected can include intestines, ovaries, fallopian tubes and tissue lining the pelvis.

Normally, tissue inside the uterine wall thickens and breaks down, then “bleeds” out during menstruation. However, in the case of endometriosis, the tissue on the outside of the uterus wall has nowhere to exit the body. This can result in pain, inflammation and scar tissue.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Symptoms of endometriosis and the severity of each symptom can vary greatly. It’s possible that you may not experience any symptoms at all. Some common symptoms of endometriosis include:

  • Pelvic pain that may worsen during menstruation
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Pain with bowel movements or urination

Endometriosis can last for years, causing chronic pelvic pain. Left untreated, it can lead to infertility and ovarian masses.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Symptoms of endometriosis are closely associated with a number of other conditions, so it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause. Dr. Kushner works diligently to find the root cause of your discomfort by conducting a physical exam, ultrasonography, and further diagnostic testing.

Ultrasonography is an important tool in diagnosing endometriosis. Dr. Kusher uses this technique of observing to echoes and ultrasound pulses to identify abnormal objects or areas of density in the abdomen.

What causes endometriosis?

While the exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, it may be caused by a combination of the following factors:

  • Retrograde menstruation: During your period, blood and cells may have traveled back through the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity instead of exiting the body
  • Genetics: In many cases, there is a family history of endometriosis
  • Hormones: Endometriosis is greatly affected by estrogen, so a possible cause is that endometrial tissue has become resistant to progesterone
  • Immune dysfunction: People with endometriosis tend to have a compromised immune system
  • Environmental factors: Certain chemicals, like pesticides, have been associated with endometriosis
  • Metaplasia: This is when existing tissue transforms into a different type of tissue

Dr. Kushner will explore these issues with you in-depth, along with your medical history, to create a strong understanding of endometriosis.

What treatments are available for endometriosis?

Dr. Kushner has extensive experience in endometriosis and will work with you to determine a sustainable treatment plan. There are several options for treating endometriosis. They include:

  • Medication
  • Injections
  • Surgery in severe cases

If you’ve been experiencing troublesome pelvic pain or any symptoms that may indicate endometriosis, please call or click to schedule an appointment with Daniel Kushner, MD.