How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue resembling the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Affecting millions of women worldwide, the condition leads to severe pain. Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging as its symptoms can be like those of other conditions. Fortunately, healthcare professionals can identify and treat this condition.

Medical History and Symptom Assessment

Your healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your symptoms. They will ask about the following: 

• The nature, intensity, and duration of your menstrual cycle

• Presence of pelvic pain, painful periods, and heavy menstrual bleeding

• Infertility issues

• Pain during intercourse

• Previous diagnoses or treatments you received

Physical Examination

A physical examination is a crucial step in diagnosing endometriosis. Your healthcare provider will perform a thorough evaluation. They will: 

• Palpitate your abdomen to check for unusual masses or tenderness

• Perform a pelvic exam to assess the uterus and ovaries' size, shape, and mobility 

• Check for enlarged ovaries, tender nodules, or areas of thickening

These signs may indicate endometriosis. Physical examination alone cannot provide a definitive diagnosis, but it helps guide further investigations.

Transvaginal Ultrasound

Transvaginal ultrasound is an imaging test commonly used in diagnosing endometriosis. It involves inserting a probe into the vagina. The probe emits sound waves to create detailed images of the pelvic organs. The procedure allows the doctor to visualize the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures.

Ultrasound can help identify endometriotic cysts, also called chocolate cysts. These are fluid-filled sacs caused by endometrial tissue outside the uterus. It can also detect other abnormalities associated with endometriosis. These include adhesions or structural changes. Still, ultrasound alone cannot confirm the presence of endometriosis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI scans provide more detailed images of the pelvic region. They are valuable in diagnosing endometriosis. The noninvasive imaging technique uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate high-resolution images of internal structures. The resulting images can help identify endometriotic lesions and deep infiltrating endometriosis. All these show the extent of the disease. MRI scans help in cases of suspected endometriosis in deep pelvic locations. These areas are difficult to visualize with other imaging methods. MRI can provide valuable information to guide and determine the optimal treatment approach.

Laparoscopy 

Many consider laparoscopy as the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis. The surgical procedure, performed under general anesthesia, entails your specialist making a small incision in your abdomen. The doctor will then insert a thin, lighted instrument called a laparoscope that visualizes the pelvic organs directly. 

The laparoscope transmits the images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to identify endometriosis lesions, adhesions, and other abnormalities. In some cases, your doctor may take a biopsy for further examination.

Laparoscopy provides both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits. It allows the removal or destruction of endometriotic lesions during the same procedure. The minimally invasive surgery reduces postoperative pain and promotes faster recovery.

Blood Tests

There is no specific blood test to diagnose endometriosis, but some blood markers may show the presence of the condition. As such, blood tests are not standalone diagnostic tools—they work with other methods to support the diagnosis.

For more information on endometriosis, visit Partners in Obstetrics & Women’s Health. Our office is in New Lenox, Illinois. Call (815) 240-0554 to book an appointment today.