Recognizing the Hidden Signs of Silent Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in women where uterine tissue grows outside of the uterus, which causes inflammation, scar tissue formation, and abdominal pain. This condition also negatively impacts reproductive health, but may be detected with a My Receptiva test. Silent endometriosis often has milder symptoms than endometriosis. Here are some ways to recognize the hidden signs of silent endometriosis:
Back and Pelvic Pain
Patients with endometriosis may experience severe pelvic discomfort and sharp back pain. With silent endometriosis, pain is often milder. Patients may feel a dull ache in the lower back and mild, intermittent pain in the pelvic area. Pelvic pain can be mistaken for menstrual cramps or abdominal pain, making misdiagnosis possible. Lower back pain that is not relieved via usual methods, such as physical therapy or pain medications, may be a symptom of silent endometriosis.
Menstrual Irregularities and Dyspareunia
Irregular bleeding is a sign of reproductive health issues. Endometriosis symptoms include heavy bleeding during menstrual cycles, severe pain during the cycle, and longer or shorter periods. Milder menstrual irregularities also occur with silent endometriosis. Watch for spotting between menstrual cycles and periods that last slightly longer or shorter than average.
Dyspareunia, or pain during intercourse, is a possible symptom of silent endometriosis. This pain can also occur before or after intercourse. Dyspareunia ranges from mild to severe discomfort.
Digestive and Bladder Issues
Silent endometriosis can result in digestive issues. This includes bloating, constipation, and nausea, which are also symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other gastrointestinal problems. When experiencing these symptoms, note what times these occur. If they are happening in sync with the menstrual cycle, they can be signs of endometriosis. Uterine tissue growth may spread to the bladder, and endometrial cells swell during menstrual cycles. This can lead to urinary tract infections, increased frequency of urination during menstrual cycles, and urinary tract pain.
Infertility Issues and IVF Failure
Silent endometriosis can result in infertility. The tissue growth causes inflammation in the pelvic cavity, potentially damaging reproductive organs and altering the environment for ovulation. Scar tissue and adhesions from tissue growth and bleeding impact the fallopian tubes. This blocks the egg from traveling to the uterus. For some, silent endometriosis is a likely cause of unexplained infertility.
Endometriosis impacts the success of assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). It may also cause progesterone resistance, which prevents the uterine lining from being receptive to an egg, preventing implantation. Patients who experience one or more IVF failures despite healthy embryos may be experiencing endometriosis.
Silent Endometriosis Detection
Patients experiencing symptoms of silent endometriosis can undergo an endometrial biopsy. We offer an endometrial biopsy known as the MyReceptiva test. During the test, a sample of the uterine lining is collected and sent to our lab. A women’s health specialist can perform a MyReceptiva test during a typical OB-GYN appointment. Results from the test are usually available between seven and 10 days.
The MyReceptiva test detects BCL6 levels. BCL6 is a marker for endometriosis, as women with endometriosis have high levels of this protein. This marker does not typically appear in women who do not have endometriosis. Knowing the test results allows patients to decide which treatments to pursue and whether to proceed with a laparoscopy. A laparoscopy is a surgery that finds and removes endometrial tissue growth, adhesions, and scar tissue. This surgery provides an official endometriosis diagnosis and helps improve the likelihood of conception or IVF implantation.
Hormone treatments are also available to help manage endometriosis and improve fertility. Possible hormone treatments include progestins, oral contraceptives, and GnRH agonists. These can help lower inflammation, reduce or eliminate menstrual symptoms, and manage other endometriosis symptoms. Eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking or drug use, and engaging in regular exercise also help improve fertility and manage symptoms.
Learn More About Reproductive Health
Early endometriosis detection can help prevent severe tissue damage and higher infertility risks. We offer a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation to provide more information about the test and address any questions you may have. Informational resources are available on how to discuss the test with your healthcare provider. Call us today to learn more about how the MyReceptiva test helps patients learn about their reproductive health.
