Steps Involved in Getting an Endometriosis Diagnosis

Women experiencing some discomfort while on their periods can be normal. When pelvic pain becomes severe and impacts regular activities, it may indicate a condition known as endometriosis. The specialists at MyReceptiva work with patients to test for this disease and identify suitable treatment options. Here are some of the steps involved in getting an endometriosis diagnosis:

Recognizing the Symptoms

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the inside of the uterus grows into the uterine cavity. Other than the uterus, this condition can impact the ovaries, vagina, intestines, and colon. The discomfort associated with endometriosis usually increases around menstrual cycles. Symptoms can include painful sex, infertility, intense abdominal or pelvic pain, and pain in the bowels or bladder when eliminating waste. If these issues persist, it’s advisable to make an appointment with a qualified physician to discuss these symptoms.

Visiting a Women’s Health Specialist

Women’s health and reproductive care doctors have training to diagnose endometriosis and help patients manage their discomfort. At the first appointment, a specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they manifest. The doctor may review your family health history, medical history, and lifestyle factors. These appointments often include a physical examination of the pelvic region for signs of endometriosis, such as tenderness or pain. Doctors may prescribe medications to help manage discomfort between the first visit and the next step of diagnosing endometriosis.

Testing To Find Endometriosis

After your consultation, your physician may order various tests to find evidence of endometriosis. One of these tests can show if the BCL6 inflammation protein marker is present in the uterus. To test for this marker, the doctor removes a small amount of the uterine lining within seven to ten days after ovulation. They insert a small catheter through the vaginal canal into the uterus and use gentle suction to take a sample of uterine lining cells. This procedure doesn’t require a hospital stay, and most patients can leave the clinic a few minutes after the biopsy.

Along with the BCL6 test, doctors may recommend that patients have a pelvic ultrasound to find visible evidence of tissue spreading beyond the uterus. They can also suggest a laparoscopy, where a small camera is inserted through the abdominal wall. This procedure allows the doctor to visualize the pelvic organs and detect endometrial tissue outside the uterus, confirming a diagnosis.

Interpreting the Test Results

Once a lab has tested the sample tissue, you should get a complete pathology analysis of the biopsy taken from the lining of your uterus. Positive BCL6 inflammation markers mean that endometriosis is likely present, while negative test results usually indicate that it is absent. Women’s healthcare physicians can help patients further interpret the test results and create a plan to manage the effects of the condition on the patient’s lifestyle and fertility goals.

Request Testing for Endometriosis

While there currently isn’t a cure for endometriosis, there are ways to manage the severity of the symptoms. At MyReceptiva, we provide a test kit to help women determine if endometriosis is causing their pelvic pain or infertility. Early detection and treatment of this condition can lessen the impact of endometriosis on fertility and quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about the test.