Endometriosis
Endometriosis Care at UVM Health
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This tissue can appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes or other areas in the pelvis. Because it behaves like uterine lining, it can thicken and bleed during the menstrual cycle. Since it has nowhere to go, it may cause pain, swelling and scar tissue.
Endometriosis is common and affects both teens and adults. While there is no cure, many treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Why Choose UVM Health?
At University of Vermont Health, our gynecologists provide high-quality care in a supportive, compassionate environment. We listen carefully to your concerns and use a personalized approach to protect your health and quality of life. With locations across Vermont and northern New York, expert care is always within reach.
As a leading gynecology program in the region, we offer:
- Experienced gynecologic professionals: Our board-certified gynecologists have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a full range of gynecologic conditions, including complex cases of endometriosis.
- Access to subspecialists: As part of a health system anchored by an academic medical center, your care team can easily collaborate with other medical specialists when needed. Our shared medical record and coordinated referral process ensures seamless access to advanced gynecologic care.
- Supportive whole-person care: Gynecologic conditions can affect many aspects of daily life. We connect patients with supportive services — physical therapy, pain management, social work and psychological counseling — available throughout UVM Health and in local communities.
Endometriosis Symptoms
Symptoms vary widely. Some people have severe pain, while others have mild or no symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Painful periods
- Pelvic pain that may worsen during menstruation
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Trouble getting pregnant
- Fatigue, nausea or bloating
Diagnosing Endometriosis
Your provider will ask about your symptoms, menstrual cycles, medical history and family history. A pelvic exam may be performed to check for tenderness or masses.
Testing may include:
- Ultrasound: To look for ovarian cysts associated with endometriosis
- MRI: To provide detailed images of pelvic organs
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that allows your provider to see and confirm endometriosis directly. Laparoscopy remains the only way to confirm the diagnosis with certainty.
Physical Therapy for Endometriosis
“All of our clinicians have been told that physical therapy is life-changing.” Elizabeth Baugh, DPT, shares how she and other physical therapists help patients with endometriosis find relief and support when recovering from surgery or managing chronic pelvic pain.
Endometriosis Treatment
Treatment depends on your symptoms, personal goals and whether you are planning to become pregnant.
Common treatment options include:
- Pain relief: Over‑the‑counter or prescription medications
- Hormone therapy: Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs or other medicines to reduce or stop menstrual cycles
- Lifestyle strategies: Heat therapy, exercise and stress reduction
- Surgery: Minimally invasive procedures to remove endometriosis tissue (often laparoscopic)
- Hysterectomy and oophorectomy: In select cases, removing the the uterus or ovaries may be considered.
If endometriosis affects fertility, your care team can discuss additional treatment options to support pregnancy.
Your provider will work closely with you to design a treatment plan that fits your needs and helps manage symptoms effectively.
Locations Near You
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75 Park Street
Elizabethtown, NY 12932
101 Adirondack Drive
Suite 1
Ticonderoga, NY 12883
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, Main Pavilion, Level 4
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
206 Cornelia Street
Suite 105
Plattsburgh, NY 12901-2779
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, Main Pavilion, Level 4
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
16 Third Street
Suite C
Malone, NY 12953-1305
130 Fisher Road
MOB-A, Suite 1-4
Berlin, VT 05602-9000
116 Porter Drive
Middlebury, VT 05753-8501