The discovery of endometriosis is often delayed because the diagnosis is not considered. Pain, bleeding or bowel problems which interfere with a woman's life are not normal, and may be due to endometriosis .
Endometriosis may be strongly suspected when a woman with typical symptoms is found to have abnormal areas of tenderness when she undergoes a gynaecological examination. Sometimes areas of scarring or abnormal lumps can be felt at the tender spots.
An ultrasound performed at the time of a gynaecological examination can also raise the suspicion of endometriosis if endometriomas or "chocolate cysts" are detected. In some situations, for example in women with infertility, the examination findings may be completely normal.
Endometriosis can be sometimes detected when a women is being investigated for abnormal bleeding from the cervix. Samples taken from the cervix may show endometriosis.
The only way to definitely diagnose endometriosis is by laparoscopy (surgery).
Biopsy samples are taken at the time of surgery to prove the diagnosis.
The doctors at Ballarat Endo Clinic often use AFS Stage 1-4 to classify endo deposits seen at laparascopy. Follow up treatment is recommended after reviewing laboratory examination of samples taken, in consultation with the needs of individuals. |
