Brittany (30) from Herndon, Virginia had been trying to conceive for four years before coming to CIGC for minimally invasive cyst removal. During surgery, it was discovered she had also been suffering from endometriosis and bowel adhesions. Endometriosis is known to cause infertility as endometrial tissue can affect the ovaries and quality of eggs, and can create toxicity in the lining. After GYN surgery, Brittany got pregnant within a month.
“My daughter is 3 years old now. She is happy, healthy and perfect. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about the carefulness of the surgery, and being able to keep my ovary and returning to normal within days. I didn’t think that I would end up keeping my ovary and didn’t know if I could ever get pregnant on my own. When that test came back positive my world changed all for the better.” Brittany said.
Endometriosis affects millions of women, and for many it takes years to get diagnosed. The primary symptom of endometriosis is intense pelvic pain with the menstrual cycle, which can be constant, or it can progress. Women who suffer with severe symptoms every month have a hard time at home, work or school, and they are often seen as unreliable. It can become difficult to explain to teachers or bosses why you repeatedly need time off for a few days each month.
Endometriosis pain is often confused with regular menstrual cramping and symptoms are dismissed in doctor’s offices. The longer it takes to get a diagnosis & treatment, the more damage can occur. Endometriosis causes inflammation and scarring which primarily affects the pelvis, but lesions can spread to other areas of the body. It takes an experienced specialist to recognize the signs and to deliver a proper diagnosis. Thorough excision of all instances of endometriosis is essential to alleviate symptoms and achieve long-term relief.
ENDOMETRIOSIS FACTS
It is fueled by estrogen.
It primarily creates lesions within the pelvic cavity, but has also been found in other areas of the body like the abdominal cavity, the lungs and the brain.
Endometriosis can be deep within the tissue and it can affect nerves.
Lesions must be thoroughly removed through excision to alleviate symptoms.
Endometriosis can cause pelvic adhesions and cysts to develop.
DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT
Why some women develop endometriosis and others do not is a mystery. That makes it harder for general medical practitioners to diagnose the condition early, which is important in order to minimize the damage to the reproductive system. Endometriosis specialists have a more complete understanding of the disease, the symptoms, and the damage it can cause.
The DualPortGYN approach was developed by CIGC minimally invasive GYN surgeonsNatalya Danilyants MD and Paul MacKoul MD and it uses just two 5 MM incisions. The surgeon who operates is able to see the entire pelvic cavity in order to achieve thorough removal so all instances of endometriosis are removed. The incisions are located in the midline of the abdomen and pelvis, avoiding the muscles, which reduces post-operative pain. Women go home the same day and are usually back to work within 1 week after DualPortGYN surgery.
Endometriosis symptoms can start as early as teen years and are often dismissed by medical professionals. It currently takes an average of 10 years for a woman to get diagnosed. Talking about the condition to increase awareness and educate the medical community is essential to help women manage the disease. Early diagnosis is important to help achieve a better quality of life and maintain the ability to conceive. Although there is no cure, hysterectomy has proven to alleviate symptoms and is often considered as treatment.
“You have to take your healthcare into your own hands. When you struggle through multiple doctors and can’t find any answers, it’s important to find a specialist.” said Michelle, who had minimally invasive endometriosis excision and laparoscopic hysterectomy. You can read her story here.
“I had a complete laparoscopic hysterectomy. After surgery with Dr. Danilyants I could tell this time was different. Nothing is slowing me down now, it doesn’t seem like I’m juggling a lot of things. I feel jubilant! Now, I can do anything! ” said Dorran, after her surgery with Dr. Natalya Danilyants. You can read her story here.
“In October 2013 I had my last surgery to remove scar tissue and endometriosis excision to prepare for IVF. I look over to my son Landon right now tearing up and smiling. We are beyond blessed with a beautiful healthy baby boy.” said Janelle, who was able to conceive after minimally invasive endometriosis excision. You can read her story here.
CIGC patient Michelle had been struggling with rectal bleeding with her cycle before coming to see us. Her symptoms were getting progressively worse for nearly 3 years. She saw a general practitioner, a gastroenterologist and an OB/GYN and none of them was able to recognize the signs of endometriosis. They dismissed her symptoms and could not provide treatment. Michelle was in great pain, feeling hopeless and desperate.
