Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue like the lining of your uterus grows outside of your uterine cavity. The lining of your uterus is called the endometrium. Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows on your ovaries, bowel, and tissues lining your pelvis. It’s rare for endometrial-like tissue to spread beyond your pelvic region, but it’s not impossible. Endometrial-like tissue growing outside of your uterus is known as an endometrial implant. The hormonal changes of your menstrual cycle affect the misplaced endometrial-like tissue, causing the area to become inflamed and painful. This means the tissue will grow, thicken, and break down. Over time, the tissue that has broken down has nowhere to go and becomes trapped in your pelvis.
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Symptoms
- Painful periods
- Cramps 1 or 2 weeks around menstruation
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Infertility
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Discomfort with bowel movements
- Lower back pain that may occur at any time during your menstrual cycle
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Causes
- Retrograde menstruation
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetics
- Immune system dysfunction
- Environmental factors
- Surgical scars
- Endometrial cell transportation
- Metaplasia
- Inflammatory factors
- Estrogen dominance
Complications
Complications of Endometriosis include:
Chronic pelvic pain
Infertility
Adhesions and scarring
Ovarian cysts (endometriomas)
Bowel and bladder complications
Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
Fatigue and reduced quality of life
Emotional and psychological impact
Increased risk of certain cancers
Impact on relationships and social life
FAQ
While some people may find relief from endometriosis symptoms through alternative therapies, evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying alternative treatments and to use them in conjunction with conventional medical care.
Endometriosis can affect sexual health and intimacy by causing pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) or affecting libido due to chronic pain and emotional distress. Open communication with partners, experimenting with different positions or techniques, and seeking medical treatment for pain management can help address these concerns.
Endometriosis may affect pregnancy outcomes, including an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and complications during pregnancy. People with endometriosis who are trying to conceive may benefit from early consultation with a fertility specialist to discuss potential challenges and treatment options.
While research is ongoing, some studies suggest potential links between endometriosis and conditions such as autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis) and gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease). Further research is needed to better understand these associations.
Hormone therapy can help manage endometriosis symptoms by suppressing menstrual cycles, reducing estrogen levels, and controlling the growth of endometrial tissue. Potential side effects may include irregular bleeding, mood changes, weight gain, and decreased libido.
While there may be a genetic component to endometriosis, it is not directly inherited in a predictable pattern. However, people with a family history of endometriosis may have an increased risk of developing the condition. Genetic testing for endometriosis risk is not routinely performed.
Endometriosis can impact work or school performance due to chronic pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Accommodations such as flexible work hours, telecommuting options, or adjustments to workload may help people manage their condition while maintaining productivity.
Some people with severe or refractory endometriosis symptoms may be eligible to participate in clinical trials investigating new treatments or interventions. These trials may offer access to experimental therapies not yet available to the public. It's important to discuss eligibility and potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
Endometriosis-related adhesions or scar tissue may increase the risk of complications during abdominal or pelvic surgeries, such as bowel or bladder procedures. Preoperative evaluation, careful surgical planning, and collaboration between specialists can help minimize these risks and optimize surgical outcomes.
Self-advocacy involves actively participating in healthcare decisions, asking questions, expressing concerns, and seeking second opinions if needed. Keeping a symptom journal, researching treatment options, and building a collaborative relationship with healthcare providers can empower people to advocate for their needs and preferences in endometriosis management.
