Endometriosis is a condition where the menstrual tissue lining the uterine cavity grows outside it. The cells usually grow in the walls of the uterus or outside the uterus, where the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs are located. In some cases, they may attach to other tissues, such as nearby organs and blood vessels. It’s essential to consult with a specialist who can tailor a treatment plan to your individual needs. If you’re seeking relief from Endometriosis, consider consulting with an endometriosis specialist singapore.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic, often painful disorder in which the tissue that lines the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. Ovaries, fallopian tubes, and also the tissue lining the pelvis are where Endometriosis most frequently affects women.
Endometrial tissue that has been misplaced in Endometriosis still behaves normally, thickening, degrading, and bleeding with each menstrual period. Because this displaced tissue cannot exit your body, it becomes trapped. Endometriomas, or endometrial cysts, can develop when Endometriosis affects the ovaries. Inflamed tissue may eventually develop scar tissue and adhesions, which are abnormal bands of fibrous tissue that may cause the tissues and organs of the pelvis to adhere to one another.
The condition is most common during your reproductive years but can occur at any age after puberty. You’re also at increased If your family has a history of Endometriosis or if you started menstruating early (before age 12). While there is no cure for Endometriosis, treatments are available to help relieve pain and other symptoms
How does it happen?
A condition known as Endometriosis occurs when the uterine lining tissue spreads outside of the uterus. Pelvic pain, the most typical sign of Endometriosis, can interfere with fertility.
There is no one answer to how Endometriosis develops. Some possible explanations include the following:
- Hormonal changes: This may explain why Endometriosis is more common in women of childbearing age.
- Genetic factors: Endometriosis may be more likely in women with a family member with the condition.
- Immune system problems: An abnormal immune response may allow endometrial tissue to grow outside the uterus.
- Retrograde menstruation: In this theory, the menstrual flow goes backward through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity, which implants on organs.
What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?
Pelvic pain, which can be mild to severe, is the most typical symptom of Endometriosis. Other symptoms may include:
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Pain with intercourse
- Pain with urination or bowel movements
- Excessive bleeding during periods
- Infertility
Endometriosis is often diagnosed based on the presence of these symptoms. However, some women with Endometriosis may not experience any symptoms at all.
Treatment for Endometriosis
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for Endometriosis, but many options are available to help manage the condition. The best approach depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s preferences.
Conservative treatments: These can help relieve pain and other symptoms without surgery. They include:
Hormonal therapy: This can be delivered via a pill, patch, shot, or vaginal ring. It functions by thinning. It works by making the endometrium thinner (the lining of the uterus), which reduces menstrual flow and pain. It can also prevent new endometrial growths from forming.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and pain. Over-the-counter options include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen (Aleve). Prescription NSAIDs are also available.
Physical therapy can help relieve pain by improving muscle function and flexibility. Techniques may include massage, heat/cold therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. Physical therapy is often used in combination with other treatments.
Surgery: This is usually only recommended for severe cases that haven’t responded to other treatments. There are several types of surgery for Endometriosis, including laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) and laparotomy (open surgery). Surgery aims to remove as much endometrial tissue as possible while preserving fertility if desired.
Conclusion
For those who have Endometriosis, the condition can be extremely painful and uncomfortable. However, treatments available can help manage the symptoms and enhance those people’s quality of life affected. If you think you may have Endometriosis, speak to your doctor about your symptoms and treatment options.