Endometriosis is a health condition which some women face. Every month, during menstruation endometrial tissue which lines the inside of the uterus is shed. Sometimes, there is an abnormal growth of endometrial tissue outside of the uterus. These are called endometrial implants and are usually found in the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, the surface of the uterus, the bowel, and on the membrane lining the pelvic cavity. Though they may seem scary since it is an abnormal growth, these implants are usually non-cancerous.
There are 4 stages of endometriosis depending on size, depth and location of implant. They progress from:- • Minimal, where the growth is superficial • Mild, where there may be slight scarring • Moderate, where there is significant scarring • Severe endometriosis typically results in cysts. Infertility is common
There are no specific causes for the occurrence of endometriosis. But it has been linked to:- • Family history • Retrogade menstruation (happens when menstrual blood flows back into the vagina and up the fallopian tubes) • Metaplasia (normal pelvic tissue converts into endometrial tissue)
Many women may not show symptoms for quite a while. For those who do, it commonly includes:- • Pain before menstruation • Painful intercourse • Cramps during intercourse • Pain during bowel movement and urination • Infertility • Lower back pain • Lower abdominal pain
Women should see a gynecologist regularly. Many don’t, and only go to a gynecologist if there is a problem. If you see a gynecologist regularly, treatment can be given for a problem early on and the problem will be nipped in the bud. If you do have some of the above symptoms, you should go to a gynecologist immediately. The gynecologist will diagnose the problem by:- • Doing a pelvic exam • An ultrasound • Through laparoscopy (minor surgical procedure) Treatment may include:- • Pain medications (for the cramps and pain) • Hormone therapy which may include * Hormonal contraceptives *Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (lowers estrogen) *Progestin therapy
Very often, endometriosis may not cause you much trouble and can be managed with hormonal therapy. But, you should consider having the endometrial tissue removed surgically if:- • You have unbearable pain and medication isn’t working • It is affecting your quality of life • You are trying to get pregnant
Usually, if hormonal therapy isn’t helpful, laparoscopic surgery which is a conservative surgery is performed to remove the abnormal endometrial tissue. The laparoscope is a thin tube with a camera at one end that is inserted through your vagina or through an incision in the abdomen. Using this to guide, the doctor can cut or burn off the endometrial tissue using a laser. This is a quick procedure and you will be back on your feet in no time.
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