Endometriosis is a uncomfortable disorder that affects lots of women in day to day life, when trying to conceive, and when pregnant. So, we wanted to reach out to someone who could supply us with answers to all the crucial questions. Dr. Jane Frederick, an internationally noted fertility reproductive endocrinologist, was kind enough to sit down for an interview with us. She supplied so much beneficial information from what the disorder really is to how to lessen its effects if you are living with it.
Everything to know about Endometriosis- An interview with Dr. Jane Frederick
We asked Dr. Frederick all the “big questions” and are summarizing all the information she passed onto us ideal here for you.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is abnormal growth cells similar to the ones that grow inside the uterus. However, these cells grow on organs outside the uterus. They are found in the Fallopian tubes, bowel, and ovaries.
While there is no exact cause, it does run in families- mom, sisters, aunts. It is also a lot more frequently found with women who suffer from infertility.
What is actually going on in your body when you have endometriosis?
Because the cells that are meant to grow in your uterus, are growing on other pelvic organs tissue scarring and adhesions may occur. This tissue also can distort normal anatomical functions.
What symptoms must women look for? What are the first signs of Endometriosis?
This is difficult because a lot of women actually don’t have symptoms. Some individuals will experience pelvic pain during ovulation or menstruation, but this often happens to normal individuals as well. This makes it hard for someone to know if they have it.
Dr. Frederick says some women may even be on their fourth pregnancy and have shown zero symptoms, then go in for a c-section and the doctors may realize that she has Endometriosis.
How do you get a diagnosis then?
A diagnosis is only suspected by taking a look at a patient’s family medical history along with a pattern of symptoms. A definitive diagnosis, however, is only confirmed by surgery.
Is Endometriosis hereditary? how do you get it?
There is no exact cause for Endometriosis. like we stated above, though, it does run in families. You will see families in which mom, sisters, and aunts have Endometriosis.
How does it affect fertility?
Endometriosis does often affect infertility. In fact, 20-50% of infertility individuals suffer from the disorder. Endometriosis affects the production of hormones, fertilization of an egg, and number of eggs available to fertilize.
On the other side of this, Dr. Frederick shared with us that she has seen individuals on their 4th kid who never experienced infertility or pelvic pain have it as well. It is crucial to keep in mind the severity of the disease does not equate to fertility.
Proactive ways to avoid or lessen Effects
A Mediterranean diet has shown to help with Endometriosis along with other fertility issues. This diet allows you to get the proper carbs, fats, and proteins needed to function optimally. It is also incredibly crucial to make sure you are staying hydrated.
Acupuncture (as an adjunct to medical treatments) can also be very helpful. It helps ease pain while also helping individuals kick back so normal hormone functions can take place. This being said, acupuncture is actually good for all individuals struggling with infertility. Basically, hormones don’t work ideal when stressed!
Treatments That are Available
There are medications available to suppress endometriosis cells
Birth control can also be very effective and help with pain
Surgical treatment is also available. The doctor goes in with a small telescope that allows them to picture the area. The doctor can go in with a laser and lessen damage by debulking or taking out the abnormal growth. This type of surgery can, in some instances, help a individual conceive.
Acupuncture also works as an adjunct to medical treatments
Some women with Endometriosis could need IVF to conceive. The good news is that there is a very high success rate for IVF, so even with severe cases of Endometriosis, you can still get pregnant. A good specialist, like Dr. Frederick, can bypass scarred tubes and help eggs become an embryo.
What would you say to a woman who just found out she has endometriosis? What must her first steps be?
First things first, seek out a specialist. here are some things you will want to look for.
You will want to look for one that has proven success with Endometriosis patients.
Be sure to check the doctor you choose is covered by insurance and are local.
Check out their bio and see if they are board-certified in reproductive infertility endocrinology.
You do not want to see just an average OB/GYN in this case.
Also, be sure to check out their Yelp reviews and see what other women have thought!
Dr. Frederick has over 30 yearsexperience, this is something very crucial to consider when trying to find a specialist of your own. She is located in Orange County, CA, so all our SoCal mamas with endometriosis must check her out! You can set up an appointment with her here or check her out on Instagram for additionally information. We loved being able to chat with her and hope this has helped to give you a greater understanding of endometriosis.