Medical Treatments The most effective thing an Endo patient can do is to find a specialist who treats the disease, such as an experienced gynecologist with a history of treating Endo patients, or if infertility is a concern, a reproductive endocrinologist. Form a partnership with this professional, in which you make informed decisions regarding your treatment plan together. Endo is a serious disease which requires serious treatment. GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonists: Lupron Depot (Leuprolide Acetate) , Synarel (naferalin acetate) , Zoladex (goserelin acetate), Suprefact (buserelin acetate) , Other Medications - Synthetic hormones: Danazol a synthetic testosterone marketed under the names "Danocrine" or "Cyclomen." Contraceptives, such as, but not limited to: Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) , Provera (same as above; administered in pill form). Other patients have opted for less-traditional approaches to their treatment, such as alternative medicine, acupuncture, herbal therapy, massage techniques, and dietary measures. While not a cure for the disease, exercise (as indicated and advised under the guidance of a trained professional who is familiar with your condition), good nutrition, and adopting a generally healthy lifestyle may significantly improve symptoms. Estrogen is known to stimulate the growth of endometriosis. With this fact in mind, hormonal treatment is designed to suppress estrogen and reduce its circulation. Birth Control Pills Birth Control Pills stimulate a pregnancy state in the body. They reduce menstrual bleeding by making the endometrial lining thinner, consequently making the period shorter and lighter. Danazol This drug suppresses estrogen levels and increases the amount of testosterone circulation. This form of medical therapy stops patients from ovulating and menstruating. It shrinks the uterine lining, and prevents new tissue implants. It is however not without side effects such as: weight gain fluid retention acne hot flashes dry vaginal wall increased hair growth ***Interesting Article on Danazol GnRH Agonists Some of the names of this drug include Lupron, Synarel, and Zoladex. It is reputed to decrease the amount of estrogen in the body by taking control of the part of the pituitary gland in the brain which produces the hormones that signal the ovaries to produce estrogen. In more simple terms, these drugs force the body into a state of menopause. GnRH agonists seem to be a "wonder drug" for many women. But for others, they don't seem to work at all. For many women, the side effects are nearly as agonizing as the symptoms of endometriosis itself. Side effects include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, headaches, depression, insomnia, and memory loss. GnRH drugs are only approved for up to 6 months for pain relief and the recurrence rate is high. Many doctors see this drug as useful only for buying time before trying to conceive, or before surgery (these uses are controversial). Surgical Treatment: Surgery is an option for women with endometriosis or infertility. Laser surgery, laparoscopy, or laparotomy may be done to remove endometrial tissue and adhesions. For women with severe pelvic pain, cutting certain nerves in the pelvis may help. Hysterectomy and the removal of ovaries can be done if the woman is sure she doesn't want any children. |
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