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29
Sep
Endometriosis treatment with minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery in Katy, TX
Do you suffer from unusually heavy menstrual flow, severe cramping during periods, and pain or discomfort during sex? If so, the problem could be endometriosis, which is growth of uterine lining tissue occurs outside the uterus. The most common treatment is surgical removal of excess tissue. This procedure is minimally invasive with little downtime, thanks to advanced laparoscopic surgery methods used here at Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine in Katy, TX.
What you need to know about endometriosis
Endometriosis is a fairly common condition affecting about ten percent of women who are in the reproductive stage of life. It occurs when endometrium, a type of tissue normally found in the uterine lining, begins to grow in other areas. Fallopian tubes, ovaries, and other organs may be affected. Although displaced, the endometrium continues functioning as if it were in the uterus. It swells and bleeds during menstruation, which can be painful and interfere with your ability to get pregnant.
Depending on the location and amount of tissue growth, symptoms can range from nonexistent to severe.
The most common symptoms include:
- Intense, sometimes debilitating, menstrual pain
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Back pain or abdominal pain during periods
- Infertility
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Nausea, bloating, and other symptoms during periods
Diagnosis and treatment options
Some researchers believe that endometriosis may be linked to immunity disorders, or to the movement of tissues during the menstrual cycle, but those theories have not been proven. At this time, the cause is unknown. However, it can be managed with the help of a knowledgeable gynecologist such as Drs Taryll L. Jenkins, Roy, Ramirez and Ikwuagwu. During your consultation, we will discus your medical history, and symptoms. A pelvic examination and diagnostic tests may be needed in order to confirm endometriosis.
Depending on the severity of symptoms and your treatment goals, the condition may be managed without surgery. Hormonal therapy can decrease the severity of menstrual periods, and pain medication may be sufficient for comfort.
Surgery may be recommended if:
- Symptoms do not subside with non-surgical treatment
- Laparoscopy is needed to obtain a diagnosis
- You want to increase your chances of becoming pregnant
What to expect during the laparoscopy procedure
A precise and minimally invasive surgery, the laparoscopic technique may be used for diagnosis, treatment, or both. You will be under anesthesia, and therefore will not feel anything during the procedure.
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New patients please call:
855-346-8610
855-346-8610
Existing patients please call:
281-347-2600
281-347-2600
The process involves creating single, very small incision in the abdominal region. A laparoscope (a thin tube with a tiny camera on the end) is then inserted through the opening. It transmits high quality imagery in real-time, allowing your gynecologist to clearly see excess tissue growth and other abnormalities.
If endometriosis scarring is present, it can be removed during the procedure. Additional incisions may be needed in order to access al affected organs. However, like the original incision, they are quite small. With specially designed surgical instruments and the assistance if the laparoscopic camera, the entire process is completed with minimal cutting.
Recovery and results
Most patients are able to return home after laparoscopic surgery, though especially complex procedures may require a night in the hospital. Although recovery is much faster and more comfortable than traditional surgery, you should expect some pain and fatigue for a few days. This is usually not severe, and easily managed with medications.
Complete bedrest usually not necessary, but you will probably be advised to avoid certain activities for a few days. This usually includes swimming, strenuous exercise, sexual activity, and soaking in a bathtub or hot tub. Exact pre- and post-operative instructions will vary, depending on the details of your surgery. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely, and please call us if you have any questions or concerns.
About 80 percent of women who undergo laparoscopic surgery report relief from endometriosis-related pain. Many studies show that it may improve infertility in some women, by removing scar tissue and improving functionality of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. If you have symptoms of endometriosis, or any other gynecological concerns, please visit Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine for a consultation. Our gynecologists and supporting team share a dedication to helping the women of Katy, TX achieve optimal health, wellness, and quality of life. We will always treat you with respect, compassion, and the individual attention that you deserve. Call us at 855-346-8610 to get started.
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Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine
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We offer general care, gynecology, and obstetrics services that span all
stages of a woman's life. Dr. Taryll L.
Jenkins, MD, received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and his Doctorate of
Medicine from Meharry
Medical College School of Medicine, TN. He completed his residency training at the
University of Texas and Hermann Hospital, TX and is Board-certified from the American College of
Obstetrics and Gynecology, with years of research experience.
Having graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Biological
Chemistry in 2011, Dr. Stephanie
Roy received her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2015 from the University of Texas Medical Branch. Today,
she is a leading Board-certified physician who works hard to provide you and your family with
high-quality services. In addition to spending time at the practice, Dr. Roy possesses extensive
volunteer experience in the community. She was also a tutor at the Medical Careers Diversity Program
in 2012 and, since then, has spent her free time volunteering for the St. Vincent’s Clinic.
Dr. Tiffany Ikwuagwu is passionate about caring for the diverse communities in Katy, TX. Having completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Houston, her medical degree at the Baylor College of Medicine, and her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the McGovern Medical School, she worked as principal investigator on a research project with Dr. Nana Ankumah at UT Houston. A member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Ikwuagwu has served in several leadership roles and has made many contributions to the community.
Yara Ramirez, MD, earned her
Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and her doctorate in medicine from the University
of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, where she also completed her residency. She won the
Resident Teaching Award from UTMB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for two consecutive
years.
Dr. Ramirez has researched extensively on many obstetrics-related topics. She has been a Junior
Fellow Representative for the UTMB Residency Program and a Medical Student Education Committee
Member at the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has volunteered for various local
and foreign community programs. Her fluency in Spanish and French is an asset to her organization.
Nadia Alexander is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center. With seven years of experience in women’s health and a focus on obstetrics and ambulatory gynecology (vaginitis, UTI, and vaginal bleeding), she provides quality, compassionate care to patients in various stages of reproductive life. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the lead contact for our Telehealth service.
