[ March 27, 2021 ] It?s one of the most common causes for female infertility, impacting at least 11 percent of women worldwide and more than 6.5 million women in the U.S.

It is endometriosis ? an inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining of a woman?s uterus grows outside of the uterus, causing pelvic and abdominal pain, heavy and painful periods, digestive problems, pain during sex, infertility and other issues. It?s a condition that is often missed or misdiagnosed because of lack of information and knowledge.

That?s why March has been designated Endometriosis Awareness Month. It?s a time to learn more about endometriosis, and for people experiencing symptoms to make an appointment with a physician for help and answers.

?Women experiencing symptoms of endometriosis shouldn?t suffer in silence,? said Keyasha Beaty Robbs, D.O., with Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology. ?There are treatment options that can improve quality of life, and lifestyle changes that may ease symptoms.?

Some of the lifestyle changes that may ease symptoms include getting regular exercise, taking time to rest and relax and preventing constipation, which can make abdominal pain worse. People who are treating symptoms at home may want to take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory (NSAID) pain medication, soak in a warm bath or use a hot water bottle or heating pad for relief.

If you?re regularly treating symptoms at home, make an appointment with your physician. Don?t let fear of COVID-19, or of finding something ?wrong,? keep you from seeking care.

?The main message I have for patients who are living through heavy, painful periods and other symptoms of endometriosis is this: Don?t be afraid to come to the doctor,? said George Cabe, M.D., with Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology. ?We can help you figure out what?s going on, and help provide relief.?

Patients with endometriosis can work with their physicians to chart the best course of treatment for them, which could include watchful waiting to see how/if symptoms progress, anti-inflammatory pain medication, hormone therapy, laparoscopic surgery or fertility treatment (if trying to have a baby).

?Patients with endometriosis often tell me that they wish they had sought treatment sooner, or that they wish they had realized that the pain they experienced during periods wasn?t ?normal,?? said Dr. Robbs. ?That?s one of the reasons that awareness about endometriosis and other health issues women face are so important. To best care for others, we need to care for ourselves too.?

To learn more about Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology in Jasper and Ellijay, please visit piedmont.org or call 706-635-3539.