The HMC Endometriosis Center is a centre of expertise in The Hague for patients from all over the country. An experienced team of gynaecologists, radiologists, surgeons, urologists and nurses, among others, sees more than 150 new patients with suspected endometriosis every month. In endometriosis, mucous membrane that resembles endometrium ends up outside the uterus. Women can suffer from inflammation and adhesions in the abdomen. Endometriosis is a painful condition that does not disappear by itself.
Gynaecologist Kim Boers: ‘We think it is important to get a complete picture of the complaints and impact on the daily lives of the patients. The patient’s personal story is key and together we look for the best treatment. Moreover, the HMC Endometriosis Center is one of the few centres in the Netherlands where highly complex operations are performed.’
Recognition
The HMC Endometriosis Centre has received top clinical recognition for its well-organised patient care and collaboration with various specialists. The centre has also been nominated to obtain EEL status.
VR therapy
Women who are still hampered by pain, despite treatment with medication or surgery, can follow a special therapy program via Virtual Reality (VR). ‘The therapy is aimed at reducing pain and improving the quality of life. With a number of techniques, patients train their brains to deal with pain signals differently,’ says gynaecologist Moniek van der Zanden. ‘In addition to these VR sessions, there are therapeutical sessions focusing on pain psychology.’ The HMC Endometriosis Center is the first centre to offer this therapy and thus treats both body and mind.
Fertility and pregnancy
For some women with endometriosis, it can be more difficult to get pregnant. Painful periods can also make waiting for a spontaneous pregnancy unbearable. This can be a reason to switch to fertility treatment. At HMC, the Fertility department is closely involved with the Endometriosis Center and there is a lot of consultation between doctors with different specializations. In addition, three of the gynaecologists at the HMC Endometriosis Center are specialized in fertility treatments.
Once you are pregnant, endometriosis can also affect the pregnancy. A pregnancy can be more complicated, even if the endometriosis has been treated. The chance of high blood pressure, or that the baby grows more slowly than normal, is slightly higher and the delivery can also start a little earlier. Together with the patient, a plan is made and what is best for mother and baby.
Through good information, cooperation and personal attention for the patient, many healthy babies have been born here at the HMC Sara de Bronovo Mother and Child Center!
Dr. Kim Boers & Dr. Moniek van der Zanden
Gynaecologists
For preconception consultations:
+31 (0)88-979 24 22
Do you think you might have endometriosis? Take the self-test using the QR-code which consists of 16 questions. Based on the answers, you can estimate whether this condition might affect you. The questions will also give you an insight into the symptoms associated with endometriosis.