Endometriosis Specialists in St. Louis

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Endometriosis treatment

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How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful, chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and scar tissue. This condition affects women during their reproductive years and can significantly impact their quality of life. St. Louis boasts a number of specialized clinics and healthcare professionals focused on the management and treatment of endometriosis. These specialists are well-versed in the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities, ranging from conservative management to advanced surgical procedures, offering personalized care plans for those affected.

Causes

The exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, but several theories exist. One widely accepted theory involves retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body. Genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, and immune system disorders are also believed to play significant roles. Additionally, surgical scars, such as those from a hysterectomy or c-section, might facilitate the direct transfer of endometrial cells. In st. Louis, endometriosis specialists consider all possible causes to tailor the most effective treatment strategies for their patients.

Signs and symptoms

Endometriosis symptoms can vary, but they often include severe menstrual cramps, chronic lower back and pelvic pain, pain during or after sexual intercourse, intestinal pain, and painful bowel movements or urination during menstrual periods. Other symptoms might include heavy menstrual periods or bleeding between periods, infertility, and fatigue. The intensity of the pain does not necessarily indicate the extent or stage of the condition. In st. Louis, endometriosis specialists are trained to recognize these symptoms early, aiming to provide relief and improve the quality of life for their patients.

Diagnosing Endometriosis

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging and often requires a multifaceted approach. In st. Louis, specialists typically start with a detailed medical history and a physical examination, particularly a pelvic exam. Ultrasound and mri may be used to identify endometriotic lesions or cysts, although definitive diagnosis usually requires laparoscopy – a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to view the internal organs and obtain tissue samples for testing. This comprehensive diagnostic process helps st. Louis specialists develop an effective, individualized treatment plan.

Prevention and natural treatment

While there is no known prevention for endometriosis, early detection and treatment can mitigate symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment options in st. Louis vary based on the severity of symptoms and whether the patient wishes to become pregnant. They range from pain management and hormonal therapies to conservative surgery, where endometrial lesions are removed while preserving the uterus and ovaries. For severe cases, hysterectomy may be considered. Additionally, lifestyle changes and supportive therapies, such as physical therapy, can be beneficial. St. Louis’s endometriosis specialists collaborate closely with their patients to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual case, aiming to enhance life quality significantly.

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