Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects roughly 10% of women of reproductive age, yet many go years without proper diagnosis or treatment. At Align Women’s Health in Jamaica, New York, Simone Lomax, DNP, WHNP, has extensive experience recognizing and managing endometriosis symptoms that can impact your quality of life. Dr. Lomax understands how this condition affects fertility, relationships, and daily activities, and she works with you to develop effective treatment strategies based on your goals and symptoms. Schedule your endometriosis consultation today by phone or online.

What is endometriosis? 

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to your uterine lining grows outside your uterus, typically on your ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other pelvic organs. This misplaced tissue behaves like normal endometrial tissue, thickening and bleeding with each menstrual cycle, but it has nowhere to exit your body.

The trapped blood and tissue cause inflammation, scarring, and adhesions that can bind your pelvic organs together. 

What are the symptoms of endometriosis? 

Endometriosis symptoms can mimic other conditions, which often delays proper diagnosis. Dr. Lomax looks for warning signs, including:

• Severe menstrual cramps that worsen over time
• Heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods
• Pain during or after sex
• Chronic pelvic pain throughout your cycle
• Painful bowel movements or urination during periods
• Difficulty getting pregnant despite trying for months
• Fatigue, nausea, or digestive issues during menstruation

Many women assume severe period pain is normal, but pelvic pain shouldn’t control your life.

What causes endometriosis? 

There’s no single cause of endometriosis, but risk factors include:

• Retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood flows backward through fallopian tubes
• Genetic predisposition
• Immune system problems that fail to destroy misplaced endometrial tissue
• Hormonal factors, particularly estrogen levels that promote tissue growth
• Previous surgeries like C-sections that might transport endometrial cells to new locations

Understanding these potential causes helps Dr. Lomax develop more targeted treatment approaches for your specific situation.

How is endometriosis diagnosed and treated? 

Dr. Lomax begins by discussing your symptoms, menstrual history, and family background. She may recommend pelvic ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to identify cysts or other abnormalities, though definitive diagnosis sometimes requires laparoscopic surgery.

Treatment for endometriosis depends on your symptoms, age, and fertility goals. Effective options include:

Pain management 

Anti-inflammatory medications, hormonal birth control, or other hormone-suppressing treatments can reduce pain and slow endometrial tissue growth.

Surgical intervention 

Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial implants, break up scar tissue, and restore normal anatomy while preserving fertility when possible.

Fertility support 

If endometriosis affects your ability to conceive, Dr. Lomax coordinates with fertility specialists for treatments ranging from ovulation induction to assisted reproductive technologies.

You don’t have to suffer in silence with pelvic pain, heavy periods, or fertility challenges. Call Align Women’s Health to schedule with Dr. Lomax, or book online today.