Endometriosis is an unfortunately common disorder that is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. The condition affects an estimated 10% of women during their reproductive years, equating to roughly 176 million women worldwide that are left to suffer through symptoms that contribute to physical and emotional turmoil.
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is found where normally it shouldn't be. Endo lesions can commonly be found in areas such as: the ovaries, fallopian tubes, tissues that hold the uterus in place, the outer surface of the uterus, and several other areas, contributing to the most common symptom: pelvic pain.
Pelvic pain often correlates to a woman's menstrual cycle, however, in a woman with endometriosis, this pain is often irrelevant to the menstrual cycle-making the condition very frustrating and unpredictable for any woman suffering. This pain exists due to endo growths that often swell and bleed just as the lining of the uterus does each month during a menstrual cycle, causing swelling and pain due to the tissue growing and bleeding into areas where it cannot easily leave the body. In addition to pelvic pain, women with endo may experience very painful menstrual cramps, chronic pain in the lower back/pelvis, pain during or after sex, intestinal pain, and painful bowel movements or pain when urinating during a menstrual cycle. For many, this pain can be so debilitating that it can impact a woman's day-to-day life. Aside from pain, this condition can also bring with it bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods, digestive problems, and infertility.
Who is at risk?
Endometriosis can happen in any woman with menstrual periods, however, it is most common in women in their 30's and 40's. You may be more at risk to develop endometriosis if you have:
Never had children
Periods lasting longer than 7 days
Short menstrual cycles (27 days or less)
Family history
A health condition that blocks the normal flow of menstrual blood from your body
The cause of endometriosis is still unknown, but researchers believe some possible links to the disorder can be things such as: problems with menstrual period flow (probably the most likely cause), genetics, immune system problems, and surgery (such as C-section or hysterectomy).
Prevention
Although there is no way to truly prevent endometriosis from occurring, there are several things women can do to reduce their chances by lowering levels of estrogen in the body, which helps to thicken the lining of the uterus during a menstrual cycle. It is recommended that women talk to their doctor about hormonal birth control methods, exercise regularly, and avoid large amounts of alcohol or caffeinated beverages (which raise estrogen levels).
Diagnosis
If you have symptoms and feel you may have endometriosis, talk with your doctor about your experiences. In addition to exploring your symptoms, your healthcare provider can perform several tests to determine if you do, in fact, have the condition. Tests that can aid in diagnosis include:
Pelvic exam
Ultrasound
MRI
Medication (hormonal birth control to reduce pain and gonadotropin-releasing hormone to decrease estrogen levels)
Laparoscopic surgery
There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but there is hope. If you or someone you know suspects or has been diagnosed with endometriosis, it is important to educate yourself with reliable resources about the condition as there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding it. For many, management of endometriosis can be life-long, so take the time to find a knowledgable and trustworthy doctor, and if needed, connect with a local support group.
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