Everything You Need To know About Endometriosis

ENDOMETRIOSIS

Endometriosis is a condition where tissues similar to the endometrial lining tends to grow outside of the uterus.

Unlike the normal tissue, this tissue still behaves like the normal lining, it thickens, breaks down and bleeds every month. However, there’s no exit route(complete drainage of blood). The blood gets trapped inside the body and it causes pain.

These abnormal growths (the tissues) can be seen on the:
-Pelvic wall
-Ovaries
-Outer uterus surface
-Fallopian tubes
-Bladder, intestine and rectum

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In very rare case, it can be seen on the lungs, diaphragm or even the brain.

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WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS WOMEN EXPERIENCE?

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-Pelvic or lower back pain
-Pain during or after sex
-Bloating, diarrhea or constipation
-Spotting in between periods
-Pain with bowel movement or urination
-Infertility issues
-Painful and heavy menstrual periods.

The weird part is endometriosis doesn’t show up on scans, and so a woman can go for years without diagnosis.

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WHAT CAUSES ENDOMETRIOSIS?

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There are no exact cause to it, however several theories exist:
● Coelomic metaplasia: this is where cells outside the uterus transform into endometrial like tissue due to hormones or inflammation.

● Retrograde menstruation: this is where blood flows backward through the fallopian tube instead of exiting the body.

● Immune dysfunction: this is where the immune system fails to destroy displaced endometrial tissue.

● Genetics: It runs in families.

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COMPLICATIONS

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Endometriosis can equally lead to:
• Bowel or bladder obstruction
• Chronic pain
• Scar tissues that stick together
• Infertility
• Ovarian cysts
• Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, low self esteem and social withdrawal.

There is no cure for endometriosis, but it can be managed using medications, hormone therapy and surgery in severe cases. And for women that find it difficult to have a baby, IVF(In vitro fertilization) may be carried out.

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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU SUSPECT ENDOMETRIOSES?

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• Try to get an accurate diagnosis from a gynecologist.
• Go for treatment options depending on pain severity and if you want to get pregnant.
• Modify your lifestyle.
• Consider joining support groups or therapy to deal with the emotional side of it
• See a fertility specialist if you’re trying to conceive
• Be patient with your self.

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LIFESTYLE AND SELF CARE TIPS

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• Reduce the intake of red meat, and processed foods.
• Take more of foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids, fruits and vegetables.
• Engage in regular exercise.
• Use heap pads to relieve the cramps and tension.
• Do the pelvic floor exercises.
• Practice being mindful and present.

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📌 WHAT DOES ENDOMETRIOSES FEEL LIKE?

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It feels like a sharp, deep and consistent pain (Like your womb is being twisted with a knife) and then, there is a heavy irregular and messy periods that comes along with severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Fatigue and exhaustion (Constant tiredness and feeling drained) and lastly, bloating, constipation or diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms, please see a gynecologist.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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-Can you get pregnant with endometriosis?

Yes you can, however it might be difficult.

-Can it come back after treatment?

Yes. Symptoms may return especially if treatment is stopped. Endometriosis is a chronic condition, it can only be managed.

-Can pregnancy cure endometriosis?

Pregnancy may relieve symptoms temporarily, but it doesn’t cure it.

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CONCLUSIVELY

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Endometriosis is not just “painful periods.” It’s a life-disrupting condition that deserves attention, and care. If you or someone you know is struggling with unexplained pelvic pain, fatigue, or infertility, please don’t ignore it.

Early diagnosis and intervention can change lives, because it often starts as early as teen stage. The moment the young girl start having difficulties with her menses please consult the gynaecologist . Although others take time to realize it's endometriosis . The moment the enlargement of the ovaries and cysts are identified please see the fertility specialist for better treatment before it's late. I have realized that it takes time to be diagnosed cause we ignore these signs under the signs of period pains.

Thanks for reading