Endometriosis Tests

Endometriosis tests usually start off with a basic pelvic exam and patient history, including questions regarding members of her immediate family. If a woman has a mother and/or sibling with endometriosis, she has an increased risk of developing this disease herself, by as much as 50 percent. During the pelvic exam, the doctor will feel for cysts on the ovaries that may indicate the presence of endometriosis.

If the doctor suspects endometriosis, further testing will become necessary. Typically, a woman will be asked to submit to an ultrasound test that works by transmitting sound waves to a computer monitor. The doctor and/or technician can then see clear images of the internal organs to determine if there are any growths or lesions characteristic of endometriosis. In some cases, a doctor will resort to a CT Scan or an MRI to get an even clearer picture of the pelvic organs.

The next step usually involves the laproscopy procedure. During this out-patient surgery, a small incision is made in the abdomen, and the laproscope is then inserted through that hole into the abdomen and pelvic cavity. The end of the laproscope holds a light and a camera, so the doctor can see on an enlarged screen exactly what he or she is looking at internally. Laproscopy usually reveals whether or not surgery to remove scar tissue and lesions is the next step.

Diagnostic Endometriosis Tests

It can be disheartening to learn that you have endometriosis. However, there are several advanced treatments that can make it plausible for you to live your life without constant pain and discomfort. If you are follow a good eating plan, exercise regularly, take your prescribed medications, and generally treat yourself well, the symptoms of endometriosis can be manageable.