Unfortunately, there is an incorrect assumption that menstrual cramps are just a normal part of a woman’s cycle and that they will go away after giving birth. Out of the total population in India, 10 to 15% of women in the reproductive age group are suffering from endometriosis. However, a study from the US revealed a shocking delay of 17 years between the onset of endometriosis and getting a proper diagnosis. With one-third of women undergoing infertility treatment finding out they had endometriosis during the evaluation stage, this delay can have serious consequences.
In today’s article, Dr Balaji Nalwad, Head Of The Department And Consultant – Obstetrics And Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune, tells us more about this condition and how you can prevent it from hampering your overall health.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a painful condition in which tissue like the uterus’s inner lining grows outside of it. It commonly impacts the tissue lining the pelvis, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Endometriosis growth can occur regardless of the pelvic organ area. And when it grows within the second layer of the uterus, the condition is called adenomyosis.
With every menstrual cycle, endometriosis tissue undergoes the same thinning, disintegration, and bleeding as the uterine lining. However, it remains within the body and grows in unwanted places. Endometriomas, or cysts, can develop in the ovaries because of endometriosis. Inflammatory surrounding tissue can result in the formation of scar tissue. Adhesions, which are bands of fibrous tissue, can also develop. These could end up in pelvic organs and tissues sticking to one another. Endometriosis can be painful, especially during menstrual cycles. Fertility challenges can also occur. However, medicines can help manage the medical condition and its consequences.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
Along with painful periods, endometriosis symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, pain during intercourse, pain while urinating, persistent pelvic pain, bloating, and complications in conceiving.
Why Does Early Diagnosis Matter?
Endometriosis, like diabetes and high blood pressure, is a progressive condition. Early diagnosis and regular treatment are important for preventing it from progressing to a more advanced state. Endometriosis, if not treated, can cause various issues, such as painful intercourse, infertility, bloating, nausea, fatigue, and depression. If it is neglected, it can be substantial, affecting women’s physical, mental, and overall well-being.
What Kind of Treatment Options Can Help?
Treatment for endometriosis can be managed in various ways:
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain medicines like ibuprofen and paracetamol can give relief from pain for a short time.
- Hormonal therapy: Taking IUDs, implants, birth control tablets, and injections can limit ovulation and endometriosis growth and reduce pain.
- Laparoscopy: This minimally invasive surgery involves making small cuts to remove endometriosis implants.
- Hysterectomy: In extreme situations, it could be possible to remove the ovaries together with the uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes. For this, laparoscopy is usually used, but it requires a longer recovery time.
- Early pregnancy and menopause halt the progression of the disease.
Treatments vary from person to person as per their condition. It’s important to speak to the doctor if one has pelvic pain, especially at the time of the menstrual cycle. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of the person.