Q:

I just found out that some of the women in my family line have (had) endometriosis (along with ovarian cysts), and I am terrified that I might not be able to have kids in the future.

When you get a paps/regular chlamydia etc checkup, do you guys check for that, too, or is it something that has to be requested?

I have had bleeding after intercourse (just barely, and it isn't painful) and lately I have had slight bleeding of the stool (again, just barely), which are supposedly some of the symptoms...

How can I find out if I have it and/or do I need to worry about it? I am not trying to get pregnant right now, but I think it would be useful to know about in case I eventually want to adopt, I can plan ahead.

Oh! And (whether I have it or not) is there any kind of cure or treatment for it?

Also, thanks a lot, this Ask the Doc thing is really helpful. I love reading all the questions :)

 

A:

There is no specific screening test that can be done for endometriosis. The diagnosis can be made with imaging tests (ultrasound, CT scan) or surgically. Discussing your bleeding symptoms with your health care provider is the first step, including the information about endometriosis and ovarian cysts in your family.

There are medical and surgical treatments for endometriosis--no cures at this point or preventive strategies have been identified.

~The Doc