Can a pap smear show that you have endometriosis?

Question

I was just curious if endometriosis can be found on when you have a pap smear because my aunt has it and I was weondering if it might be hereditary. Are there any signs that I could have this?

Answer 1

1.) Endometriosis absolutely cannot be diagnosed via a pap smear; a pap smear has zero to do with the diagnosis or treatment of the disease. Diagnosis is by surgical confirmation of ectopic endometrial glands and stroma; it can be suspected based on symptoms, but cannot be definitively diagnosed without histological confirmation.

2.) Endometriosis absolutely IS hereditary, as confirmed over and over again in recent research and studies throughout the past decade. A woman or girl with a first or second degree relative who has the disease has a SIX-FOLD risk of having it herself.

Signs, symptoms, treatment and other accurate, timely information by an authoritative source - not the incorrect and mythical misinformation touted by many here - can be found at http://www.endocenter.org/pdf/2007ScreeningEducationKit.pdf.

It is imperative that the proper, most current information be obtained by a patient suspecting this illness in order for her to deal most effectively with it. While there is no cure for Endometriosis, there are treatments that can help significantly. However, unless the patient is empowered and advocates for herself, she will be stuck in the same "9 yr. delay in diagnosis" pattern so many others already are.

Answer 2

This simple answer..no a pap smear can NOT detect endometriosis. Now there may be endometrial lesions that can be seen during a pap smear, but a biopsy would have to be done on the lesion. The only was to diagnose endometriosis is through surgery. Most doctors do a pelvic laprascopy which requires usually three - four small incisions.
Melissy stated that endometriosis is an inflammation of the uterine wall.. that is so completely NOT true.
Endometriosis is a condition where parts of the lining of the uterus transplant outside of the uterus. These are usually referred to as endometrial lesions. These lesions bleed, swell and can cause pain. Endo can cause scarring, which can cause pain and infertility as well.
Endometriosis DOES run in families. My mother and two of my aunts have endometriosis. Unfortunately there are many other conditions that also coincide with endometriosis, included, but not limited to, Interstitial Cystitis (Bladder Condition), Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, and others. There have been studies that show some increased risk of some cancers in women with endometriosis. I suggest visiting the Endometriosis Research Center for more information. There are a non-profit group that does not accept donations from drug companies, unlike some other organizations...
Anyway, if you are not having symptoms I would not worry about being tested for endometriosis. Just because your aunt has endo, it does not mean that you will have it. Just like any other disease that is hereditary, you know that you may have an increased risk, so just monitor your health and report any symptoms to your doctor.
I started having symptoms of endometriosis at age 12 but was not diagnosed until age 20. I have learned through my struggles that the best thing you can do is educate yourself and always ask your doctor questions. If necessary, you may have to change your doctor.. Just remember, your health should always come first.
I hope this has helped. Take Care,
Amanda

Answer 3

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Answer 4

I was 30 when I was first diagnosed with endometriosis, after the unbelievable heavy bleeding during the periods. I had my first diagnostic surgery in 1998 and they also removed some of the lesions and the cysts on that occasion. From that point on it was a crazy dance with my life revolving around my disease and the days of my life going by me as if I was just a spectator. I was on Lupron that offered some help but destroyed me financially.

My parents were basically living on the verge of poverty just so that they can help me pay for my Lupron. I had a partial hysterectomy in 2005 and I was a bit better for approximately a year. And after endometriosis and pain returned in 2006, I remember that I just gave up any hope that I will lead a normal life ever again.

I was never able to maintain a healthy relationship and I gave up on that, too. I found out about this eBook (http://tinyurl.com/EndometriosisB ) on the internet and the few clicks changed everything. I could not believe that I have been suffering needlessly for so long. I will not be able to have children because my fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed, but I am just thankful that I am again able to lead a healthy full life...

Answer 5

Test For Endometriosis

Answer 6

According to the Endometriosis association website, studies have shown that first-degree relatives of women with this disease are more likely to develop endometriosis. While there is a hereditary link, the disease tends to be worse in the next generation.

Endometriosis can only be diagnosed through a laparoscopy. Sometimes, if someone is experiencing some of the symptoms (such as heavy bleeding, lower back pain, fatigue, diarrhea), a MD may order an ultrasound to see if they can detect any mass in the uterine region. One should note that an ultrasound is not a substitute for a lap.

I personally have Stage 2 Endo and know that it took years to be diagnosed. For several reasons, a lot of MDs do not want to perform this assessment. Mine was done with a laparoscope and it went through my belly button. Recovery time for me was about 5 days, but can vary depending on the severity, person's health, and how physically active they are.

Answer 7

No, endometriosis will not show up on a pap. I have endo and the only way they could diagnose me was with a scope they had to put through my belly button and into my body cavity. I did have all the symptoms and they were pretty sure that is what it was. They were right. Please get to your MD and check it out. Don't wait too long for it could interfere with you ability to have children, if it gets bad. My symptoms were excessive bleeding ( I think I had my period for like 3 months straight), severe cramping, lower back pain. Good luck.

Answer 8

You really need to read "Endometriosis Bible & Violet Protocol" by Zoe Brown (also available in electronic format here: http://www.endometriosisbible.info ). It's about how to eradicate endometriosis disease forever. It worked for me, you will see results in only a matter of weeks. Good Luck!

Answer 9

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Answer 10

Pap smears do not prove endometriosis. The Dr would basically have to go off off the symptoms you are having and tell you if you have it. I don't think there is a definitive test for it.