Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that affects over 11% of women in the United States between the ages of 15 and 44. Practicing since 2020 gynecologist Lauren Spoo, MD has extensive experience helping women at her practice, Lauren Spoo & Associates, overcome the physical and quality of life issues that often accompany endometriosis, from pain and discomfort to heavy bleeding. To gain the upper hand on your endometriosis, call the office in Houston, Texas, or schedule a consultation using the online booking tool.

• Endometriosis Q & A

What is endometriosis??

Endometriosis is a condition in which the lining of your uterus grows outside your uterus. During your normal menstrual cycle, your endometrium, which is the term used for the lining of your uterus, thickens in anticipation of hosting a fertilized egg. When the egg doesn’t arrive, this tissue sheds out, which creates your period. After your period, the cycle begins anew.

In women who have endometriosis, the endometrium grows outside the uterus, often covering neighboring organs and tissue, including:

The problem lies in the fact that this tissue goes through the same cycle as it would inside your uterus, thickening each month, and then shedding out, except it has nowhere to go. Because of this, adhesions and scar tissue can form, and cysts can develop on your ovaries, which affects your fertility.

By far the most common indicator of endometriosis is pain, which is caused by the trapped endometrium. This pain flares up during your periods as your body signals for the endometrial tissue to be eliminated. Other symptoms that may indicate the presence of endometriosis include:

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to see Dr. Spoo, who can alleviate your pain and address your condition.

• Your Fallopian tubes
• Your ovaries
• The outside of your uterus
• The tissue that holds your uterus in place
• What are the symptoms of endometriosis
• Painful intercourse
• Heavy bleeding
• Infertility
• Pain with urination or bowel movements

How is endometriosis treated?

Dr. Spoo has many tools at his disposal to help you manage endometriosis. It's important to note that since there's no known cause for endometriosis, there's no magic bullet when it comes to a cure. What Dr. Spoo can do is help you effectively manage the condition, restoring your quality of life. To do this, she offers: The latest and at this time the best medication, Elagolix (Orilissa), a GNRH antagonist

Dr. Spoo aims to help you find a solution that's in line with your goals. For example, if you want to get pregnant, she works with you on finding a treatment that sets you up for the best chances of success. If pregnancy isn't an issue, but pain and bleeding are, Dr. Spoo uses a treatment that relieves your discomfort.

The bottom line is that you don’t have to live with the often painful side effects of endometriosis.

Call Lauren Spoo & Associates, or book an appointment online to get relief.

• Pain medications
• Hormone therapy to control your ovulation and menstruation
• Surgery to remove excess tissue
• Endometrial ablation