Contraceptives as Treatments for Endometriosis

The former chief of a department of obstetrics and gynecology and an American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology Diplomate, respected physician Dr. Keith Reisler specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mild to severe gynecological disorders. Plano, TX gynecologist Keith Reisler, MD is a leading expert in effective endometriosis treatments, including operative laparoscopy and hysteroscopy as well as hormonal contraceptives.

Endometriosis, a painful condition caused by the growth of uterine tissue outside of the uterus, affects approximately 10 percent of American women. While there is no cure, symptoms such as intense cramping and long and heavy menstrual cycles can be minimized with hormonal contraceptives, including the three medications below.

Progestin-only pills - These contraceptives are composed of a synthetic form of progesterone, which thins the uterine lining over time. Progestin pills can also reduce or eliminate menstrual cycles completely, helping patients avoid painful periods.

Mirena IUD - The Mirena IUD can reduce pain and blood flow during the menstrual cycle. Since IUDs can be effective for up to five years, Mirena may be a long-term solution for women experiencing heavy periods.

Depo-subQ Provera 104 - Depo-subQ, an injectable form of birth control, is FDA approved for treating several endometriosis symptoms, including painful periods and dyspareunia, or pain during or after sex. One shot is effective for up to three months and has minimal side effects.

How Frequently Should You See Your OB/GYN?

Keith Reisler, MD, studied medicine at the State University of New York Downstate Medical School. For three decades, Keith Reisler, MD, has functioned as an obstetrician and gynecologist (OB/GYN) at a private practice in Plano, TX.

When it comes to visiting an OB/GYN, there is no set frequency that can be applied to all patients. In the past, women have been advised to make annual visits to receive pelvic examinations and Pap tests. However, the United States Preventive Services Task Force, in partnership with the American Cancer Society and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), issued a statement in 2012 stating that women between the ages of 30 and 65 who have received negative Pap test results in the past only require a combination Pap and HPV test once every five years but should continue to have a gynecological exam yearly. Some newer studies have indicated that some precancerous cells can be missed with every 5 year Paps and Dr Reisler still advises yearly Pap smears and insurance will cover this. Either way patients should still have a gynecological exam yearly.

Meanwhile, women over the age of 65 do not require Pap tests at all, assuming there is no history of cervical cancer or precancerous cell development. Furthermore, women over 65 must have received either three consecutive negative Pap tests or two Pap and HPV tests within a 10-year period. Once again Dr Reisler thinks this should be individualized and some women may want to continue more frequent Pap smears.

With that said, there is still value in annual visits to the OB/GYN. These benefits include discussions about diet and exercise, sexual practices, pelvic prolapse, and the onset of menopause symptoms. Individuals should express any questions or concerns with their OB/GYN to determine what schedule would best suit their needs.

About the AAGL Foundation

Working out of his own obstetrics and gynecology practice in Plano, TX, since 1988, Dr. Keith Reisler offers comprehensive women’s health care services. Outside of his daily clinical work, Keith Reisler, MD, keeps up with advances in his field and networks with colleagues through membership in multiple organizations. The American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) is an organization that allows physicians such an opportunity.

Founded more than 25 years ago as the charitable arm of the AAGL, the Foundation of the AAGL was established to advance the profession by providing funding for educational and professional development opportunities in minimally invasive gynecological treatments, and to encourage emerging technologies in the field. Specifically, the foundation offers scholarships, research grants, and funded teaching fellowships.

One of the foundation’s most prominent funds is the Fund for the Future, which awarded more than $250,000 in 2016-2017. The fund disseminates money to educational centers focused on teaching the most up-to-date techniques in the field. To learn more about the Foundation, visit aagl.org/service/foundation.