Endometriosis is a gynecological condition that affects women of reproductive age.
In endometriosis, endometrial-like tissue grows in areas of the body outside the uterus. In these areas, it creates so-called endometriosis foci. There are several possible areas of growth of endometriotic tissue outside the uterus. The most common are in the abdominal cavity and include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterine ligaments, the outer surface of the uterus, the inner surface of the pelvis, etc.
Many women with endometriosis have few or no symptoms. However, many experience severe pain during or before their periods, heavy periods, bowel problems, and pain during intercourse. Endometriosis can also cause adhesions, immune system disorders, infertility, and other problems.
What are the Causes?
There are many theories about the formation of endometriosis. The most accepted is retrograde menstruation. According to this theory, a small amount of menstrual "blood" consisting mainly of endometrial tissue, instead of escaping outward through the vagina, is transported into the abdominal cavity through the fallopian tubes, where the tissue implants and grows. Some experts believe that this retrograde occurs in many women without causing further problems. However, the possible (co)existence of some immunological and/or hormonal problem ultimately allows this tissue to implant in some places in the abdominal cavity and thus develop endometriosis.
Another theory suggests that endometriosis cells migrate from the uterus to other parts of the body through the lymphatic or blood vessels.
Research shows that heredity plays a role, as a woman has a greater chance of developing it if someone in her family already has it.
What can you observe?
Endometriosis symptoms may begin early in adolescence or appear later in adulthood. Symptoms may be continuous or come and go in cycles. Cyclical symptoms often coincide with your period because the tissue behaves similarly to uterine tissue.
When symptoms appear depends on where the endometrial tissue is located. Endometriosis in the ovaries, for example, often causes infertility.
Some frequently occurring symptoms are:
- Particularly severe period pain
- Pain during or after sex
- Painful bowel movements and/or urination
- Pain in the abdomen, back, or thighs that can last the entire month
- Very heavy menstrual bleeding
- Difficulty conceiving
How is the diagnosis made?
Symptoms are often treated without a formal diagnosis. However, the most reliable method is laparoscopy because it allows the doctor to see the foci, the extent of the endometriosis, clean as much of the tissue that is causing inflammation as possible, and give a clear answer regarding fertility.
How is it treated?
Depending on the severity of symptoms, endometriosis can be treated with painkillers, hormonal therapy, or surgery.
Many people choose to change their lifestyle for the better as an additional treatment, with exercise, a healthy diet, and even acupuncture. Since there is not enough research to prove the effectiveness of these actions, it is best not to make up the entire therapeutic process and simply supplement the doctor's instructions.
Remember, severe pain and heavy bleeding during your period are not necessarily normal and are not something you should have to endure! Talk to your doctor if you notice anything that bothers you every month, or even just once!
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