Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in either areas outside of the uterus, other common parts of the reproductive system (i.e. fallopian tubes, ovaries, ligament) or in the surrounding area (i.e. bowels, bladder, lungs, vagina). This disease affects 1 in 10 women, which ultimately affects their overall health and fertility. 

Symptoms: 

Some of the common symptoms of Endometriosis can include painful menstrual cramps, bowel and bladder dysfunction, heavy menstrual bleeding, constipation and diarrhea, bloating, and infertility. Each person undergoing this disease may experience varying symptoms and severity, which can also affect a person’s overall function and quality of life. 

Risk factors for Endometriosis may include:

• Family history of Endometriosis 

• Short or unusual menstrual cycle (shorter than 28 days)

• Long menstrual periods, heavy menstrual flow

• Infertility

Causes: 

The exact cause of Endometriosis is undetermined; however, researchers have speculated that a person's imbalance of hormones and genetic make-up could possibly be factors. Additionally, having a family history of Endometriosis may increase a person’s likelihood to have the disease. 

Who Commonly Undergoes Endometriosis? 

Endometriosis is primarily diagnosed in women aged 20-40 years, however, it can also be seen in teens or younger adults. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life. This causes Endometriosis to have less of a severe effect on the overall life of a woman. 

Treatments:

• There are many treatment options depending on the severity and the symptoms of an individual need. 

• Hormonal Therapy: Birth control pills may be prescribed to regulate or stop bleeding. By stopping the period, a person can eliminate the symptoms of endometriosis. 

• Laparoscopic Surgery: Laparoscopy is performed using small incisions to place a camera (laparoscope) inside the abdomen to find and remove endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus. This treatment may relieve pain and improve fertility.

• Hysterectomy: In the most severe cases, a hysterectomy, either partial or total, may be suggested as well as removal of the ovaries. A hysterectomy is normally the last treatment option as there are many other treatment strategies and is normally recommended only when other treatments have failed and the symptoms are debilitating. 

Written by Anonymous at Incisionary

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Endometriosis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org Office on Women’s Health. (2021). Endometriosis. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.womenshealth.gov

Venus Women’s Hospital and IVF Center (n.d.) A Beginners Guide To Endometriosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Retrieved from https://venuswomenshospital.com/blog/womens-care/guide-to-endometriosis-symptoms-diagnosis-and-treatment.html