Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition that affects approximately 1 in 101 women of reproductive age. This condition can cause severe pain and fertility problems, significantly impacting quality of life.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the inside of the uterus, grows outside of it. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, ligaments that support the uterus, the space between the vagina and rectum, and, less commonly, on other organs in the abdominal cavity.
Like normal endometrial tissue, these implants respond to the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle, thickening and bleeding monthly. However, unlike menstruation, this blood has nowhere to leave the body, causing inflammation, scarring, and adhesions.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
Symptoms vary greatly from one woman to another, and the severity of the pain does not necessarily correspond to the extent of the condition.
Pelvic pain It is the most common symptom, often associated with the menstrual period. Although many women experience menstrual cramps, those with endometriosis describe much more intense pain than usual.
Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) is common, especially during or after deep penetration.
Pain when urinating or defecating They can occur, especially during menstruation, if endometriosis affects the bladder or bowel.
Heavy bleeding, irregular periods or bleeding between cycles are common.
Infertility It is often the first sign for some women. About 30-50% of women with endometriosis have difficulty conceiving.
Other symptoms may include fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea, especially during menstruation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but there are several theories:
Retrograde menstruation It occurs when menstrual blood flowing through the fallopian tubes ends up in the pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body through the vagina.
Genetic factors plays a role – endometriosis tends to run in families.
Immune system dysfunction it could allow endometrial tissue to grow outside the uterus.
Diagnostic
Diagnosing endometriosis can be difficult because the symptoms can be similar to other conditions.
Clinical examination can identify tender areas or lumps in the pelvic area.
Ultrasound It can detect endometriotic cysts (endometriomas) on the ovaries, but it cannot identify all forms of endometriosis.
Laparoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosis, allowing direct visualization and tissue sampling for biopsy.
Treatment Options
There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are multiple options for managing symptoms.
Analgesics such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help control pain.
Hormone therapy includes oral contraceptives, progestins, GnRH agonists that suppress ovulation and reduce the growth of endometrial tissue.
Laparoscopic surgery It can remove endometriosis implants, cysts, and adhesions, relieving pain and potentially fertility.
Hysterectomy with or without removal of the ovaries may be considered in severe cases when other treatments have not worked.
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a complex, chronic condition that requires long-term management. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most women can have a good quality of life.
If you are experiencing symptoms that could indicate endometriosis, it is important to see a gynecologist. You don't have to accept severe pain as normal – there is help available.