Endometriosis Specialist
Davda Medical Group
Niyati Davda, MD
OB-GYN located in Piscataway, NJ
Roughly 10% of women in their childbearing years have endometriosis, an often painful condition that may cause heavy periods or infertility. If you suspect you have this condition, rely on OB/GYN Niyati Davda, MD, at Davda Medical Group in Piscataway, New Jersey. She provides effective diagnosis and state-of-the-art care to address endometriosis. Call today or book a consultation online.
Endometriosis Q & A
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a health problem where the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. With endometriosis, the lining may grow on your:
- Fallopian tubes
- Ovaries
- Peritoneum
- Vagina
- Bladder
- Bowels
- Intestines
Doctors typically diagnose endometriosis in women in their 30s or 40s.
How do I know if I have endometriosis?
Endometriosis may be symptomless, or it can cause chronic pain. Signs of endometriosis include:
- Pain just before your period
- Pain during your period
- Painful sex
- Heavy periods
If endometrial tissue is growing on the outside of your bladder or bowels, you may find it painful to go to the bathroom.
Does endometriosis cause infertility?
Almost 40% of women with infertility also have endometriosis. This may be because the conditions interfere with the passage of eggs and sperm through your uterus and Fallopian tubes by causing inflammation, growths, and scarring.
You may wish to discuss infertility with Dr. Davda if you've been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant. She can determine whether endometriosis might be the reason and provide treatment to address your condition.
How is endometriosis diagnosed and treated?
Dr. Davda diagnoses endometriosis with a minimally invasive procedure called laparoscopy. The procedure is the only definitive way to know whether you have endometriosis.
During laparoscopy, Dr. Davda uses a slim laparoscope, which is equipped with a tiny camera, to look for the presence of endometrial growths, or "implants,” and remove them. Laparoscopy offers the unique advantage of permitting Dr. Davda to both diagnose and treat your condition.
What are other treatments for endometriosis?
For low-grade endometriosis, Dr. Davda typically suggests hormonal medications. These medications can slow the growth of new endometrial tissue, but can't remove existing endometrial tissue.
Dr. Davda may suggest beginning with one of the following medications:
- Progestin-only pills
- Combination birth control pills
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (reduce estrogen)
- Aromatase inhibitors (reduce estrogen)
She may recommend a contraceptive injection called Depo-Provera®, which works to stop heavy menstrual bleeding and halt the growth of endometrial implants.
Because some of these treatments prevent pregnancy, feel free to share your family planning goals with Dr. Davda. Together you can determine the best treatment plan for you.
If you're ready for effective care for endometriosis, call today or book an appointment online with Dr. Davda.