If there are any suspected ectopic implants, they are biopsied in order to determine the presence of endometrial cells. These can be accomplished by using pain medication, hormonal therapy, surgical procedures, and alternative treatment. However, these medications do not alter the course of the disease in any way other than by relieving pain. As a result, they are most commonly used in women with mild disease or in women who do not want to use more potent drugs. If a decision is made to stop taking these drugs, symptoms are more than likely to return.
Hormonal therapy is used in women who choose more aggressive medical intervention.
Hormonal therapy is used to suppress elevated levels of estrogen, which maintains growth of the ectopic implants as well as the endometrial tissue in the uterus. Treatment with these agents typically lasts for 6 months. A GnRH agonist may be used prior to surgery to shrink ectopic implants, or following surgery to eliminate any remaining implants. It works by slowing down the release of LH and FSH from the brain. The result is an artificial menopause, where the woman is not producing estrogen, a primary hormone necessary for the growth and proliferation of ectopic implants.