It is a common condition that woman have, yet most women have not heard about endometriosis and its symptoms. Women with endometriosis have fertility issues and chronic pain during their period.
According to a Parent Herald report, it is a medical condition affecting a woman’s ability to conceive as well as the stages of her pregnancy. Not only that, this chronic disorder also causes pelvic pain.
“Though most women haven’t heard of the condition, endometriosis plagued women with fertilisation complications and chronic pain during their period,” the report said.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), endometriosis affects roughly 10 per cent (190 million) of women of reproductive age globally.
Because most women are not aware that they have it, their condition is neglected, mistaking its common symptoms as a normal part of their lives.
Women who have endometriosis may experience severe cramps during their period, pain during sex, infertility and fatigue.
They are also more prone to yeast infections, allergies, and they are highly sensitive to chemicals.
What is Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic disease associated with severe, life-impacting pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements and/or urination, chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, fatigue, and sometimes depression, anxiety, and infertility.
Women could experience either side of the extremes when it comes to symptoms: some would experience nosebleeds and severe migraines, while for some it may be just muscle cramps.
“Endometriosis may affect millions but its main cause is still not distinguished,” the same report said. “It affects women as young as 14, while others experience it during their menopausal years.”
Endometrium
The endometrium is a crucial layer of cells that lines the uterus, making it a pivotal player in the female reproductive system. It’s like the nurturing foundation for potential life to thrive!
This essential tissue is responsible for preparing the uterus for pregnancy each month. If fertilisation occurs, the endometrium provides a cosy home for the developing embryo. However, if pregnancy doesn’t happen, it sheds during menstruation, signalling the start of a new cycle.
Endometriosis Meaning
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Endometriosis happens when tissue, like the lining of the endometrium, develops outside the uterus, meaning, an abnormality. The tissue that grew outside your uterus is not the same as endometrium tissue. However, they may possess common features.
The tissue may grow anywhere in your body. Particularly, it always affects the pelvic area, which includes the following:
- the ovaries
- the fallopian tubes
- tissues that support the uterus
- the outside area of the uterus
Endometrium tissue may also grow in other areas. This tissue can grow in your digestive tract, your lungs, and your heart.
Your body often expels this type of tissue whenever you have menstruation. But, the tissue that grows in endometriosis might remain inside your body, which may result in inflammation. As this tissue decomposes, scar tissue can develop.
What Causes Endometriosis
Doctors and experts do not know what exactly causes endometriosis.
Here are some of the factors that are believed to contribute to the development of endometriosis:
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Retrograde Menstruation: One of the prevailing theories is retrograde menstruation, where menstrual blood containing endometrial tissue flows backwards through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body through the vagina. The displaced tissue then implants and grows in the pelvic region, leading to endometriosis.
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Genetic Predisposition: Genetics may play a role in the development of endometriosis. Women with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk of developing it themselves.
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Immune System Dysfunction: An impaired immune response in some women may fail to recognise and eliminate endometrial cells that implant outside the uterus, allowing the tissue to grow and cause inflammation.
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Metaplasia: Metaplasia refers to the transformation of one type of tissue into another. In some cases, it is proposed that peritoneal cells lining the pelvic cavity may transform into endometrial-like tissue, contributing to the formation of endometriosis.
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Hormonal Imbalances: Hormones, particularly estrogen, play a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and may influence the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Endometriosis is more common during the reproductive years when estrogen levels fluctuate.
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Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins and chemicals may increase the risk of this condition, although specific causative agents are not yet fully understood.
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Inflammation and Immune Response: Chronic inflammation in the pelvic region may promote the adhesion and growth of endometrial tissue in abnormal locations.
Endometriosis Symptoms
Pain is the most common presentation of signs and symptoms of endometriosis. However, the level of pain does not equate to the extent of the disease.
Pain may usually disappear after menopause once your body stops producing estrogen. But, if the person uses hormone therapy during menopause, signs, and symptoms of endometriosis may persist.
What are the first signs of endometriosis?
The first signs of endometriosis can be associated also with pain, as what indication will the condition always shows. Also, you may not notice any symptoms of endometriosis, until you have the following first signs:
- back pain during your period
- pain when pooping or peeing, often during the period
- fatigue that won’t go away
- painful sex
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These first signs of endometriosis may also be similar to what it presents in its foreboding symptoms.
Endometriosis Treatment
A range of medications can be employed to manage endometriosis and its symptoms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are commonly used to address pain.
Hormonal medicines, including GnRH analogues and contraceptive methods, can also help control pain. These methods encompass pills, hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), vaginal rings, implants, injections, and patches. However, it’s essential to be aware that these methods may not be suitable for individuals aiming to conceive.
For those facing difficulty in getting pregnant due to endometriosis, fertility medicines and procedures can be considered.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove endometriosis lesions, adhesions, and scar tissues. Laparoscopic surgery, which employs a small camera to visualise inside the body, allows doctors to make minimal incisions.
It’s crucial to discuss treatment options with a healthcare provider, taking into account individual preferences, effectiveness, side effects, long-term safety, costs, and availability.
Can Endometriosis Be Prevented
Currently, there is no known way to prevent endometriosis. However, there is encouraging news that enhanced awareness, early diagnosis, and proper management can slow down or halt the natural progression of the disease.
Taking these steps may also help reduce the long-term burden of symptoms associated with endometriosis, including the possible risk of central nervous system pain sensitization.
While there is no cure available at present, staying informed and seeking appropriate care can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected. Remember, early detection and effective management are key, so don’t hesitate to discuss your options with a healthcare provider to find the best treatment approach for you.
Image Source: iStock
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