Endometriosis
Gynaecology - Endometriosis
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What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus, called the endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This misplaced endometrial tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, and even in other organs. It responds to hormonal changes in the same way as the endometrial tissue inside the uterus, leading to inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Endometriosis
Some of the common menstrual disorders are as under:
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Irregular periods occur when the length of the menstrual cycle varies or when periods are unpredictable.
- Pelvic pain: Chronic pelvic pain is a hallmark symptom of endometriosis. It may range from mild to severe and can be experienced during menstrual periods, intercourse, or throughout the menstrual cycle.
- Painful periods: Women with endometriosis often experience severe menstrual cramps that are not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications.
- Heavy or irregular bleeding: Endometriosis can cause excessive or irregular menstrual bleeding.
- Painful intercourse: Pain during or after intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is a common symptom of endometriosis.
- Infertility: Endometriosis can interfere with fertility and is often diagnosed in women who have difficulty conceiving.
Causes and Risk Factors of Endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:
- Retrograde menstruation: Menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity, where it implants and grows.
- Hormonal factors: Hormones like estrogen may stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
- Genetic predisposition: Endometriosis tends to run in families, suggesting a possible genetic link.
- Immune system dysfunction: An abnormal immune response may allow the growth of endometrial tissue in abnormal locations.
Treatment Options for Endometriosis
- Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain.
- Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, hormonal patches, and other hormonal therapies can help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce pain.
- Surgical intervention: Laparoscopic surgery is often performed to remove endometrial growths, scar tissue, and adhesions. In severe cases, a hysterectomy may be recommended.
- Assisted reproductive technologies (ART): In cases of infertility due to endometriosis, ART procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered.
Fertility and Pregnancy Considerations
Endometriosis can affect fertility, but many women with the condition can still conceive and have successful pregnancies. However, it may take longer to conceive, and there may be an increased risk of complications during pregnancy. Fertility treatments such as IVF can be an option for couples struggling to conceive. It’s important for women with endometriosis who desire pregnancy to discuss their options with a fertility specialist.