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Endometriosis is a common disease that can affect any menstruating woman from the time of her first period to menopause. There are some cases in which the disease will last even after menopause. Endometriosis is a painful, chronic disease that occurs when endometrium (tissue lining the uterus) is found outside the uterus. Some common areas where this tissue can be found outside the uterus are as follows:
- abdomen
- ovaries
- fallopian tubes
- uterus ligaments
- between the vagina and rectum
- vagina
- bladder
- bowel
- cervix
- vulva
- outer surface of the uterus
- lining of the pelvic cavity
The tissue that develops in the areas of the body listed above can grow to become growths or lesions. The abnormal tissue will then respond to the woman’s menstrual cycle in the same way that the tissue of the uterine lining, however the endometrial growths and endometrial tissues that are shed have no way of exiting the body. At present, there is no cure for Endometriosis and it can be hard to diagnose the condition. The proper treatment option can be hard to decide upon in the case of each individual patient. Endometriosis can affect all aspects of a woman’s life. Medical researchers are trying to find out what causes Endometriosis as well as different ways to manage the disease. The goal is to provide full lives for women with Endometriosis.
Consider some of the symptoms that can result from Endometriosis:
- Pain with sex
- Pain before and during menstrual periods
- Fatigue
- Infertility
- Painful urination during menstrual periods
- Painful bowel movements during menstrual periods
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Frequent yeast infections
- Allergies
- Chemical sensitivities
Diagnosis is considered uncertain until proven by Laparoscopy, a minor surgical procedure done under anesthesia. A Laparoscopy usually shows the location, size, and extent of the growths. By performing the Laparoscopy the doctor and patient can make better treatment choices.
Although there is no cure for endometriosis, you should consider either one or a combination of the following treatment options:
- Pain Medication
- Hormonal Therapy
- Surgery
Always consult with a physician before diagnosing and or treating Endometriosis.
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