
Endometriosis is difficult to live with — it can cause both physical and emotional pain. At Sharp, we're here to help you better understand your condition and give you safe, innovative options for healing.
Women who have endometriosis develop endometrial tissue outside of the uterus (tissue that is normally inside the uterus). The tissue still responds to the regular hormonal cycle of the female body by building up and breaking down with the menstrual cycle, resulting in internal bleeding, inflammation, cysts and scar tissue.
The endometriosis scar tissue may also cause blockage in the pelvic area and organs, resulting in infertility or difficulty getting pregnant.
We offer minimally invasive treatments, including robotic surgery, which can swiftly treat your endometriosis and get you back to living the vibrant life you deserve.
While any woman may develop endometriosis, you may be at increased risk for the disease if you fall into any of the following categories:
You are Caucasian
You gave birth for the first time after age 30
You have an abnormal uterus
You have first-degree relatives (mother, sister, daughter) with the disease
The most common endometriosis symptoms are:
Menstrual cramps
Abnormal or heavy menstrual flow
Gastrointestinal problems (diarrhea, constipation or nausea)
Painful urination and bowel movements during menstrual periods
Pain during sexual intercourse
Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant
Surgical treatment options for endometriosis depend on your diagnosis; however, there are two main options:
Though a great option for all women suffering from endometriosis, minimally invasive surgery is especially promising for women who would like to have children in the future.
With techniques like robotic surgery, the surgeon is able to make small precise movements with better visualization of the anatomy to remove the endometrial tissue. This is especially helpful to preserve the delicate structures of the pelvis and decrease the chance of future complications.
Sharp is recognized as a Network of Excellence in Robotic Surgery, the first system on the West Coast to receive this designation. For our patients, this accreditation signifies our ability to consistently deliver the safest, highest-quality surgical care.
Sharp HealthCare offers da Vinci® robotic surgery in San Diego at the following hospitals.