Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue resembling the uterine lining develops outside the uterine cavity. Endometrial-like tissue that develops on your ovaries, intestines, and pelvic lining tissues causes endometriosis. Although uncommon, endometrial-like tissue can occasionally expand outside the pelvic area. An endometrial implant is a growth of tissue that resembles the endometrium outside of the uterus.

What are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?

The main sign of endometriosis is pelvic pain, frequently related to menstruation. The following are the common endometriosis symptoms – 

• Pelvic pain and cramps before and for a few days after a period.
• Lower back and stomach aches are possible.
• Pain during or after sex.
• Discomfort when urinating or using the restroom. 
• Bleeding too much.
• Infertility.

Additional symptoms and indicators might include – lethargy, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea.

What are the Causes of Endometriosis?

Endometriosis’ precise cause is unknown, but there are several theories addressing the cause. Below are some of the certain explanations of the condition –

• Cell Transformation in Embryos
• Surgery (hysterectomy or C-section)
• Peritoneum Cell Transformation 
• Immune System Condition
• Endometrial Cells Transport 

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Endometriosis symptoms mimic ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), leading to potential delays in diagnosis due to similarities in symptoms. After consultation, your doctor might recommend the following tests –

• Physical Examination – After a detailed conversation on your medical history, symptoms, etc, your doctor will perform a pelvic exam and use a speculum and light to see inside the vagina and cervix. Additionally, they will physically feel your belly to check for cysts or scars hidden beneath the uterus.
• Ultrasound – An abdominal ultrasound or a transvaginal ultrasound may be used by your doctor. An ultrasound probe is put into your vagina during a transvaginal scan in which your reproductive organs are visible. They can aid your doctor in locating endometriosis-related cysts, but they are ineffective in excluding the condition.
• Laparoscopy – Endometriosis can only be detected for sure by first-hand observation. Laparoscopy, a minor surgical technique, is used to do this. The tissue can be removed in the same procedure after being diagnosed.

How is Endometriosis Treated?

Medication or surgery is typically used to treat endometriosis. The course of action taken will depend on the severity of your symptoms and whether or not you want to get pregnant. Doctors often advise trying conservative treatment methods first and only resorting to surgery if such methods fail. 

• The first treatment advice your doctor might give you is to use an over-the-counter pain medicine to help with uncomfortable menstrual cramps. Also, they might advise you on hormone treatment if the medication does not work. Endometriosis discomfort can occasionally be lessened or eliminated with the help of additional hormones. Endometrial implants thicken, degrade, and bleed due to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. 
• Hormone therapy may reduce endometrial tissue growth and stop new endometrial tissue implants. However, endometriosis cannot be permanently treated with hormone therapy. Following the end of your treatment, your symptoms can come back.
• Lastly, if the condition is severe, the doctor might advise to undergo conservative surgery. Also, if you have endometriosis and are attempting to get pregnant, you may have a better chance of success if you have “conservative surgery.” The procedure involves removing the endometriosis implants while keeping your uterus and ovaries. Although endometriosis and pain may return after surgery, it may help if you have severe endometriosis-related pain.

Your doctor may do this treatment laparoscopically or, in more severe circumstances, by traditional abdominal surgery. Most endometriosis cases can be managed with laparoscopic surgery, including severe ones. 

Why Choose Giggles?

If you suffer from maternity conditions or infertility, our experts at Giggles Hospital help you overcome those conditions for safer and successful pregnancies. Also, with the availability of world class technology, we aim to treat your conditions without letting your stress too much. Visit us now and let us worry about your issues.