Endometriosis Specialist

Sagar Patel, M.D.

Obstetrics and Gynecology located in Holmdel, NJ

The debilitating pain of endometriosis and the fear of not being able to get pregnant can make this a crippling condition for many women. Sagar Patel, MD, OBGYN treats endometriosis in women throughout the Atlantic Highlands from his private practice in Holmdel, New Jersey. If you’re experiencing severe pelvic pain you think might be endometriosis, call or click online to book an appointment with Dr. Patel today.

Endometriosis Q & A

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a painful condition in which the lining of the uterus, or endometrium, grows outside of your uterus. The disorder frequently involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the lining of your pelvis.

The tissue that grows outside your uterus continues to act like normal endometrium, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding with your monthly cycle. Since it has no way out of your body, this tissue gets trapped and may cause pain.

Who gets endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a common problem in women’s health. This disorder affects more than 11% of women between the ages of 15 and 44. Endometriosis shows up more among women in their 30s and 40s, sometimes causing problems getting pregnant.

Some factors that may put you at higher risk of developing endometriosis include:

  • Starting your period at a young age
  • A family history of endometriosis
  • Never giving birth
  • Menstrual cycles that are shorter than 27 days
  • Low body mass index
  • Alcohol consumption

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Pelvic pain is the main symptom of endometriosis. While it’s normal to get painful cramps during your period, women with endometriosis report severe menstrual cramps that exceed what most women experience. Other common signs and symptoms of endometriosis include the following:

  • Extreme period cramps
  • Pain during sex
  • Pain while going to the bathroom
  • Problems getting pregnant
  • Excessive bleeding or bleeding in between periods

How does an OBGYN diagnose and treat endometriosis?

Endometriosis can be challenging to manage, so early detection is critical. First, Dr. Patel performs a pelvic exam, during this time he palpates your pelvis to try to detect any lumps of endometrial tissue.

The only way to confirm you have endometriosis is by laparoscopy, in which Dr. Patel inserts a thin tube into your abdomen to examine the tissue inside. He may also use the laparoscope to take a small tissue sample or perform minor surgery. Dr. Patel offers same-day, in-office laparoscopy procedures for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

If you have painful periods with heavy bleeding and suspect you might have endometriosis, call or click online to book an appointment with Dr. Patel today.