March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month—and if people have dismissed your painful periods as “just part of being a woman,” this post offers the support you need. Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide. Doctors commonly misdiagnose, frequently dismiss, and almost always delay endometriosis—leaving patients to wait an average of 7 to 10 years from their first symptoms to a diagnosis.
In southeast New Mexico, that delay can stretch even longer without access to a specialist. That’s changing. AGH’s Vibrant Women’s Clinic now brings fellowship-trained urogynecologic care to Artesia — and endometriosis diagnosis and management is one of the conditions Dr. Scott Beard, MD, FACOG, FPMRS treats directly.
If symptoms leave you wondering about a potential connection, the Vibrant Women’s Clinic offers the right place to start.
Clinical reviewer — Laurie Crockett, FNP-— Vibrant Women’s Health
| 1 in 10 Women of Reproductive Age Affected | 7–10 Yrs Average Time to Diagnosis | 200M+ Women Affected Globally |
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus — called the endometrium — grows outside the uterus, according to the World Health Organization. This tissue can appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus, and other pelvic organs.
Unlike the uterine lining that sheds during menstruation, this misplaced tissue has nowhere to go. It builds up, breaks down, and becomes trapped — causing inflammation, scarring, and adhesions (bands of fibrous tissue that can cause organs to stick together).
The result is a condition that can cause intense pain, heavy periods, pain during intercourse, and in some cases, fertility challenges. Because these symptoms overlap with many other conditions, medical professionals frequently misdiagnose endometriosis more than almost any other condition in women’s health.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) — pain that goes beyond typical cramping
- Chronic pelvic pain — not just during menstruation
- Pain during or after intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Fatigue, particularly around the menstrual cycle
- Bloating — sometimes called “endo belly”
- Difficulty becoming pregnant (in some cases)
Why Is Endometriosis So Often Missed?
There are several reasons endometriosis takes so long to diagnose. First, symptoms vary enormously from woman to woman — some experience debilitating pain, while others have minimal symptoms. Second, many women are told that painful periods are normal and don’t seek evaluation. Third, diagnosing endometriosis definitively requires a surgical procedure (laparoscopy), which creates a barrier to early investigation.
Cultural norms often condition women to tolerate menstrual pain without question. In rural communities like southeast New Mexico, a historical lack of specialists has limited access to proper pelvic symptom evaluation. Both of those barriers are worth naming — because they explain why so many women in Artesia, Carlsbad, and Roswell have been managing symptoms for years without answers.
Endometriosis is not something to simply push through. It is a chronic inflammatory condition that, left untreated, can progress. Earlier evaluation leads to better outcomes.
Think You Might Have Endometriosis?
Don’t wait years for answers. The Vibrant Women’s Clinic in Artesia sees patients from Carlsbad, Roswell & SE New Mexico.
Call (575) 736-8394
Request an Appointment Online →
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
A thorough evaluation begins with a detailed symptom history and pelvic examination. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI can identify larger endometriomas (cysts associated with endometriosis) but cannot definitively diagnose all forms of the condition.
The gold standard for diagnosis is laparoscopy — a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to visually confirm the presence of endometrial-like tissue. Tissue samples (biopsies) taken during this procedure can confirm the diagnosis. In many cases, treatment can be performed during the same procedure.
Dr. Beard’s fellowship training in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery means he has extensive experience with the diagnostic and surgical management of endometriosis. Women in Artesia and across Eddy County have access to this expertise without leaving the region.
Treatment Options for Endometriosis in Artesia NM
There is no cure for endometriosis, but symptoms can be effectively managed — and for many women, treatment significantly improves quality of life. The right approach depends on the severity of symptoms, the extent of the disease, and the patient’s reproductive goals.
Hormonal Therapies
Hormonal medications that reduce or stop menstruation can slow the growth of endometrial tissue and relieve pain. Options include hormonal birth control, progestin therapy, GnRH agonists and antagonists, and the hormonal IUD. These are often a first-line treatment for women not yet seeking surgical intervention.
Pain Management
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can provide meaningful relief for menstrual pain associated with endometriosis. They work best when taken before the onset of menstrual pain rather than after.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Laparoscopic excision or ablation of endometrial tissue can reduce pain and — in some cases — improve fertility. This is performed as a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Dr. Beard’s FPMRS fellowship training specifically includes complex pelvic surgical procedures including endometriosis excision.
Coordinated Care at AGH
Endometriosis often intersects with other women’s health concerns — pelvic floor dysfunction, mental health, and nutrition all play a role in managing a chronic condition. The Vibrant Women’s Clinic at AGH coordinates care across departments, including behavioral health support through Sarah Cordova, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC and nutrition guidance from Jordan Fuentes, RDN. Learn more at artesiageneral.com/service/womens-health/.
¿Habla español?
- Marzo es el Mes de Concientización sobre la Endometriosis.
- Si experimenta dolor pélvico crónico o períodos dolorosos, no tiene que sufrirlo en silencio.
- El Dr. Scott Beard y Laurie Crockett, FNP atienden a pacientes en la Clínica Vibrant Women’s en Artesia.
- Para hacer una cita, llame al (575) 736-8394.
You’ve Been Told It’s “Just Cramps” Long Enough
Endometriosis Awareness Month exists because too many women spend too many years being dismissed. The pain is real. The condition is real. And effective treatment is now available right here in Artesia, New Mexico.
Whether you’ve been symptomatic for years or you’re just starting to connect the dots, Dr. Beard and the Vibrant Women’s Clinic team are ready to listen and build a plan with you. Visit AGH’s urogynecology page or call today to schedule your consultation.
Schedule Your Endometriosis Consultation at AGH
Vibrant Women’s Clinic | 612 N. 13th St., Professional Building 1, Suite B, Artesia, NM | SE New Mexico’s Urogynecology Specialist
Call (575) 736-8394 | AGH Main: (575) 748-3333
Frequently Asked Questions
What is endometriosis and how is it treated?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and in some cases fertility challenges.Treatment includes hormonal therapies, pain management, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Scott Beard, MD, FACOG, FPMRS at AGH’s Vibrant Women’s Clinic in Artesia, NM provides evaluation and treatment for endometriosis.
Is there an endometriosis specialist near me in southeast New Mexico?
Yes. Dr. Scott Beard, MD, FACOG, FPMRS provides fellowship-trained urogynecologic care — including endometriosis diagnosis and treatment — at the Vibrant Women’s Clinic in Artesia, NM. Patients travel from Carlsbad, Roswell, and across the Pecos Valley for care. Call (575) 736-8394.
How long does it take to get diagnosed with endometriosis?
On average, women wait 7–10 years from first symptoms to diagnosis. This delay is often due to symptoms being dismissed as normal menstrual pain and limited access to specialists. If you have persistent pelvic pain or painful periods, see a provider and ask specifically about endometriosis evaluation.
Can endometriosis be cured?
There is currently no cure for endometriosis. However, symptoms can be effectively managed through hormonal therapies, pain management, and minimally invasive surgery. Many women experience significant improvement in quality of life with proper treatment.
Does AGH treat endometriosis in Artesia NM?
Yes. Dr. Scott Beard, MD, FACOG, FPMRS at AGH’s Vibrant Women’s Clinic treats endometriosis as part of a comprehensive urogynecology program. The clinic is located at 612 N. 13th St., Professional Building 1, Suite B, Artesia, NM. Call (575) 736-8394 to schedule.
Where can I find endometriosis care near me in Carlsbad or Roswell NM?
The nearest fellowship-trained urogynecologist for women in Carlsbad and Roswell is Dr. Scott Beard at AGH’s Vibrant Women’s Clinic in Artesia, NM. Call (575) 736-8394 or visit artesiageneral.com/service/urogynecology/ to learn more.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Endometriosis diagnosis requires evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider. If you are experiencing severe pelvic pain or other concerning symptoms, contact your provider or seek care promptly. Artesia General Hospital | 702 N. 13th St., Artesia, NM 88210 | (575) 748-3333