Women often decide to explore endometriosis testing options while managing symptoms such as pelvic discomfort and intense periods. Understanding what each endometriosis test examines helps you navigate the diagnostic process. Since symptoms can vary from person to person, medical providers often suggest tests based on a patient’s history. Some tests aim to identify signs of endometriosis within the pelvis, while others may look for indirect or non-specific markers of inflammation.

Describing Symptom Patterns

Endometriosis causes tissue resembling the uterine lining to grow outside the uterus. Unlike the tissue that grows in the uterus, this uterine lining can’t leave the body during the menstrual cycle. In some cases, the area around the tissue may become irritated. Over time, this irritation might lead to inflammation and the formation of scar tissue.

This tissue growth often causes symptoms that range from irregular menstrual cycles to fertility challenges. Some women mention intense PMS-like and other physical symptoms, such as bloating, fatigue, nausea, and pain during intercourse. Patients often describe symptoms that overlap with those of other conditions, so testing helps them find the correct diagnosis.

Exploring Diagnostic Paths

While laparoscopies are often used to diagnose endometriosis, some doctors may try a combination of less invasive tests and patient history analysis before surgical intervention. Patients interested in less invasive approaches should discuss the option of a timed endometrial biopsy with their doctor. This procedure may provide additional information about endometriosis, though it is not a definitive diagnostic test. Less invasive evaluations are generally quicker and can often be performed during a routine appointment. The results help healthcare professionals guide treatment decisions, including strategies for pain management and cycle tracking.

Understanding Uterine Lining Tests

An endometriosis test that examines the uterine lining for endometriosis-related changes focuses on detecting signs of inflammation. One method involves a timed endometrial biopsy, which can typically be performed during a routine visit with a women’s health provider. For best results, the sample is usually collected about seven to ten days after ovulation. During the procedure, a medical professional uses a thin catheter to obtain a small sample of tissue from the uterus. The process is generally quick, and most patients return to normal activities within several minutes.

Once the tissue is collected, it is analyzed for a protein marker called BCL6, which is not usually present at significant levels in endometrial tissue from people without inflammation. Elevated BCL6 levels may indicate uterine inflammation and have been linked to fertility issues associated with endometriosis. It’s key to note that a positive result does not confirm a diagnosis; it simply indicates that inflammation is present. This type of test is also not used to assess the severity of endometriosis. By identifying signs of uterine inflammation, healthcare providers may gain insight into potential endometriosis-related changes, even in patients who do not currently experience symptoms. Test results are intended to support discussion with a medical professional about possible next steps in evaluation and management.

Positive Result

A positive result means that BCL6 was detected in the collected sample. This finding suggests that inflammation may be present in the uterine lining. It indicates a high probability that endometriosis will be found during a laparoscopy. These tests can offer insight into uterine inflammation and support conversations with a healthcare professional about possible follow-up care. You can use a positive test result to support the need for referral to a specialist for further investigation of endometriosis.

Negative Result

A negative result indicates that elevated BCL6 was not detected in the sample. It does not rule out endometriosis, and it doesn’t determine whether inflammation is present for other reasons. In this case, other symptoms and the patient’s history should ideally also be evaluated before any treatments or invasive tests are performed.

Get an Endometriosis Test

Evaluating your symptoms and plans for the future may help you decide which type of endometriosis test to choose. Some people have very mild symptoms and don’t start to look into a diagnosis until they’re trying to become pregnant. For those thinking about fertility issues, a reproductive specialist may suggest tests to detect the presence of BCL6. If you suspect you have endometriosis, ask your doctor today about the available tests to help with a quick diagnosis.

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