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Endometriosis

Home > Endometriosis

Aim: Facilitate early diagnosis to prevent complications

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a progressive chronic condition that generally remains active until menopause.The lining of the womb is called the endometrium which has the capacity to regenerate and is shed every month as menstrual bleeding. This specialised tissue is the essence of life- baby anchors on the endometrium and draws nutrition from the mother. In endometriosis, the specialised tissue lining the uterine cavity can exist outside of the pelvis and uterus. This bleeds internally leading to pain and scarring and effects the function of the organs. Over time collections of blood can build up in or around organs and the organs can become stuck together.

What are the sites of endometriosis?

– Ovaries and fallopian tubes
– The lining of your abdominal cavity (peritoneum)
– Pelvis
– Bladder
– Bowel walls
– Vagina
– Abdominal wall scars
– Rarely in distant organs

What are the symptoms?

There are a wide range of symptoms, depending on the site and the severity may vary from person to person. Some of them may have no symptoms. The severity of the symptoms may not reflect the severity of the condition.

 

The typical symptoms of endometriosis are pain before, during and after period, pelvic pain, painful sex and infertility. The pain may increase in severity with the passage of time leading to absenteeism from school, college or workplace leading to severe mood changes leading to anxiety and depression.The periods are heavy and there may be difficulty in getting pregnant.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

– By the history and symptoms
– Additional aids are ultrasound and MRI
– The gold standard is laparoscopy

 

There still exists a 6-11 year delay from symptom onset to diagnosis and treatment. It is challenging as sometimes the symptoms can be nonspecific or associated with other disorders.

FAQs:

Does endometriosis go away after menopause?

Generally, yes. Symptoms persist if excess estrogen is produced or taken externally without progesterone after menopause.

What other health conditions are linked to endometriosis?

– Allergies, asthma, and chemical sensitivities
– Autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, lupus, and some types of hypothyroidism
– Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
– Certain cancers, such as ovarian and breast cancer