Endometriosis is a condition where the uterus lining attaches itself to various other organs outside the uterus. During the menstrual cycle, the lining is shed normally. But the lining that got attached outside does not have a way out. So it gets accumulated on the same place and gets aggravated during menstruation and ovulation leading to bleeding and tear away. This can form some painful tissue scar. The lesions or implants grow in size abnormally and cause pain and discomfort. According to the Endometriosis Research Center, this condition affects over 7 million women and is one of the leading causes of chronic pelvic pain, female infertility and gynecologic surgeries.
Causes
No causes have been associated with endometriosis. However, some experts have put forward certain possibilities that have not yet been proved.
One cause is that the menstrual tissue backs up to the fallopian tubes during menstruation. It enters the abdominal cavity and gets implanted. Most of the physicians believe that every woman experience the back up at one time or another. Women who have immunity problems may develop endometriosis.
Another theory suggests that the condition is due to genetic birth abnormality where the cells begin to develop outside the uterus with fetal development. When the child grows up into a woman, the misplaced cells develop into implants or lesions causing the discomfort and pain.
A genetic theory is also being studied by the doctors worldwide. The theory is based on the idea that this condition is hereditary. Some studies done earlier, show that women with a history of endometriosis in the family may have daughters who may suffer from this condition.
Symptoms
There are many symptoms of endometriosis and they include the following. Intermittent or chronic pelvic pain, painful menstruation, infertility, painful bowel movements, painful sex, fatigue, irregular and heavy bleeding, pain during ovulation, painful urination, gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, bloating and constipation and lower back pain.
Diagnosis
Surgery is required for diagnosing endometriosis. MRIs, ultrasounds and CAT scans are not very useful for diagnosing this condition. A doctor studies the symptoms and history to decide whether the patient requires a surgical procedure to diagnose. Sometimes laparoscopy is also used for the diagnosis.
Treatment
There is no complete treatment for endometriosis. However, the patients can deal with the symptoms in a better way by taking certain treatments.
Pain medication: Over-the-counter medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen are given to reduce the pain. If these are not effective some prescription medications will be necessary.
Hormonal drug therapy: Hormonal drugs are provided to prevent the aggravation of the lesions and implants during ovulation. They include progesterone medications, oral contraceptives etc. They can be given only for a limited time because they may cause some problems in some people. This therapy is more effective after a surgical treatment.
Surgery: Surgery is used not only for diagnosing but for removing the lesions and pain. This increases the chance of pregnancy also. Conservative surgery is done with the help of laparoscopy. In certain cases, hysterectomy is recommended for curing the condition.
Natural or alternative therapy: Certain natural remedies are also used for treating the condition. Some of them include the use of diet changes, herbs, Chinese medicine and acupuncture etc for managing the condition. Homeopathy is also an alternative treatment for providing relief from the symptoms.
Prevention
There are certain things you can do to lower the chances of getting endometriosis. One way is to get pregnant at an early age. Avoid late pregnancies. Another way is to take birth control pills or oral contraceptives. Keep the stress levels under control by doing yoga and meditation etc. Maintain a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle. Exercise regularly. All these can help you to reduce the chances of contacting the disease.
Frequently asked questions
Can pregnancy cure endometriosis?
There is no treatment for endometriosis. In some women, pregnancy can lessen the effects and symptoms of the condition.
Will hysterectomy help to get rid of endometriosis?
Though it is not a cure for the condition but it can help them to feel better. So discuss the problems with your doctor before going for hysterectomy.
Where are the lesions found?
The lesions are found on the outside wall of the uterus, on the ovaries, pelvic cavity, fallopian tubes and the reproductive organ ligaments. Sometimes they are also found on the bowel, bladder, vagina, cervix and surgical scars on the abdomen.
Does endometriosis hamper pregnancy?
The condition is known to cause infertility on women. With proactive treatment, there is an increase in the possibility of pregnancy.