The Role of Awareness Around Silent Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that impacts fertility, and the presence of silent endometriosis can be harder to diagnosis. The MyReceptiva test is utilized to identify the likelihood of endometriosis. Here is more information on how awareness impacts silent endometriosis.
Identifying Possible Symptoms
Silent endometriosis has subtle symptoms, and it occurs when uterine tissue grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can grow on the ovaries, pelvic lining, fallopian tubes, and bladder surfaces. While it breaks down during menstrual cycles, it is not able to leave the body; this results in inflammation and scar tissue formation. The inflammation negatively impacts the endometrium, making it less likely to support healthy conception and embryo development. Adhesions that form around reproductive organs also make it harder for eggs to travel and meet with sperm. Unexplained infertility or pregnancy loss can be a sign of endometriosis.
Some patients experience unusual endometriosis symptoms, such as gastrointestinal changes. Possible symptoms include irregular changes in menstrual flow, subtle abdominal pain, and bowel discomfort. These symptoms are less painful, and they are often mistaken for other conditions if patients are not aware of what to look for.
Individuals may remain undiagnosed for endometriosis for an average of 7 to 10 years. Being familiar with the milder symptoms of endometriosis allows patients to identify when they are experiencing possible symptoms. This helps guide conversations with a reproductive specialist, and it allows patients to discuss possible tests and treatments. We offer downloadable information about the MyReceptiva test on our website for individuals to share with their provider.
Learning About Tests
Awareness about silent endometriosis allows patients to learn about available testing procedures. While standard physical exams may not show signs of endometriosis, an endometrial biopsy is able to help identify the presence of specific markers related to endometriosis. In patients experiencing endometriosis, there is typically an overexpression of the protein marker BCL6; this is linked to inflammation and progesterone resistance.
The MyReceptiva test involves utilizing a small catheter to collect a sample between 7 and 10 days after the ovulation cycle. A lab analyzes the sample and sends the results to the provider. A positive result indicates a higher likelihood that someone is experiencing endometriosis, and it allows the patient to follow up with their specialist. This can help guide decisions on whether to receive a laparoscopy, which is a surgical procedure that confirms the endometriosis diagnosis.
Receiving Treatments
Knowing about endometriosis allows patients and their specialists to review different treatment solutions; these may differ depending on personal fertility goals. Identifying possible endometriosis early on allows for more effective treatment. A laparoscopy procedure involves a doctor inserting a small camera to find signs of lesions. If they identify any, they can remove them with ablation or excision techniques. Ablation is utilized for more surface-level lesions, where excision is needed for endometrial tissue on the organs.
The specialist may also offer hormonal treatments; these medications or injections work to adjust the body’s hormonal level, lowering reproductive hormones or helping regulate the cycle. Other treatments include implants. A reproductive specialist or nutritionist is also able to work with patients to suggest lifestyle changes that promote health. This includes making adjustments to diet, performing light exercise, and quitting smoking and recreational drug use.
Learn More About Silent Endometriosis
Being aware of silent endometriosis allows for an earlier diagnosis and offers more specific treatment options. Receiving treatment for endometriosis helps with fertility; this may increase the chances of successful artificial reproductive technology treatments, such as in vitro fertilization. We offer a consultation to discuss the test and answer your questions. To learn more about the MyReceptiva test and endometriosis, schedule your free phone consultation today.
