Endometriosis

What is endometriosis and how is it treated?

Endometriosis
Endometriosis affects many women worldwide. Tissue that is similar to the uterus' lining is found in other parts of the body when it should only be found in the uterus. The lesions of endometriosis are often found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and on the side wall of the pelvis. Lesions are occasionally found in the rectal-vaginal septum and uterosacraral ligaments. Sometimes endometriosis is found in caesarean section scars, laparoscopy scars, bladder, appendix, rectum, intestines and on the colon. Although it is rare, endometriosis has been found inside of the vagina, inside of the bladder, on the skin, lungs, spines and brain. Endometriosis can cause scar tissue that can make a woman's internal anatomy distorted. In the later stages of the disease, a condition known as "frozen pelvis" can occur-which means that the internal organs are fused together.

Women that have endometriosis often complain of pelvic pain. Pain in the pelvic area is one of the most common symptoms and it usually is associated with her menstrual cycle. Sometimes the pain is so severe and intense that it affects their daily lives. During a painful period, some women have to miss school or work. Pain can be felt at any time of menstruation, ovulation, during sexual intercourse and even while urinating. Some women feel the pain in the pelvic region, in the bowel region or in their lower back. Women with endometriosis may also suffer from diarrhea, constipation, abdominal bloating, heavy bleeding and fatigue. One well-known complication from endometriosis is infertility. Although not all women who suffer from the complication are infertile, about 35% are.

Diagnosing endometriosis takes time and is often a challenge. There are no simple tests to diagnose the condition. Performing a laparascopy and taking biopsies of the tissue is the only sure way of diagnosing endometriosis. It is an expensive and invasive procedure that should only be done by a surgeon that is well-educated and experienced in diagnosing endometriosis. If you prefer not to have surgery to diagnose the condition, an experienced gynaecologist can recognize symptoms that are common with endometriosis. Other than a general history and physical, your doctor may perform ultrasounds, MRI scans and vaginal exams. None of these tests can 100% confirm or rule out endometriosis. Unfortunately, the only way of finding out for sure is to have an invasive surgery.

Unfortunately, the cause of endometriosis is not yet known and treatment that fully cures the disease is unavailable. There are certain risk factors that are associated with endometriosis and women who have never had children are more likely to experience the condition. A woman can be at an increased risk of developing endometriosis because of a medical problem that prevents the normal passage of menstrual flow. There is no set race or age that endometriosis affects the most. However, the condition does generally develop several years after the onset of menstruation first begins and symptoms generally diminish with menopause or pregnancy. Treatment is based on a woman's individual needs and the doctor will help her decide which plan to choose based on her age, symptoms and future fertility wishes.

Comments: Endometriosis

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ash96743 - 334 days ago.
I am new to this site, but I just wanted to say to all those diagnosed with endo, please do not give up hope of having children!! I was diagnosed at age 16 with endo, doctor after doctor said 'i was too young'or 'it was in my head, everyone gets cramps' but the pain never subsided. I was told after 3 surgeries, and 4 lupron treatments (which I had the worst side effects) I would be lucky to concieve. Well, almost 9 yrs later, I have 3 beautiful children, AND I am pregnant with twins! Have faith!!

StarrAngel - 347 days ago.
Hi! I am new to this sight, but am enjoying hearing everyones stories. I was diagnosed with endometrisois in April of 2007. I had the Laproscopy surgery on Dec. 2007. We started trying for a baby that December and tried for a year with no luck. I finally convinced my doc to put me on clomid, and exactly a year after the surgery, Dec 1st I found out I was pregnant :) I was starting to wonder if it were possible...I just want you all stuggling with endometriosis to not give up!! There is hope!!

Brodys Mommy - 348 days ago.
I have really painful periods, I mean to the point where I have to miss school or work. Sometimes the pain is so bad I have to go to Urgent Care or the ER. Last week I had my baby via c-section & while I was in surgery I remember the doctor telling my bf that I have two small tumors on my uterus. I'm sure he said uterus but my bf cant remember if he said my cervix or uterus. Could this mean that I might have Endo? My grandmother has it & my mother might have it. Any replies would help. My mom said tumor on uterus or cervix is cancer but not all tumors are cancerious & the doc said it was nothing to worry about. But I'm a little concerned considering I have a newborn child I have to take care of.

yukstar - 358 days ago.
We have been trying to get pregnant for 5 long years. About 9 months ago, I found out that I have Endo during my infertility treatment and I had laparoscopy and surgery. I did it just because I thought that was my last hope and only way to get pregnant. 4 months later, I was pregnant and now I am carrying a baby boy!!! (24weeks) Don't give up your hope!

Happyfam - 370 days ago.
Hi ladies, I just wanted to say that every BODY is different and ANYthing can happen. I was diagnosed w/ endo when I was 16 yrs old (I'm 29 y/o now). I had 2 laporoscopies, and was told I'd 'be lucky to get pregnant'. So, believing my docs, I didnt practice very safe sex - heh, used the pill but not always on time. Guess what?!! I had a beautiful baby boy (albeit, 10 yrs later)! He was born 5 yrs ago. I have had one early miscarriage (7 weeks along, or so) since, and am now 16 weeks pregnant. :) Don't give up hope. Keep trying, keep praying, and have fun while you're at it. ;)