Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that affects more than 10 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 44. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Endometrial tissue outside the uterus causes pain, which is sometimes severe. Endometriosis impairs your reproductive organs, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the outer surface of the uterus.

While you can’t completely prevent this condition, you can lower your risk of developing it by exercising regularly, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake and lowering the levels of estrogen in your body. Talk to the doctor about hormonal methods of lowering your estrogen levels.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. A condition known as dysmenorrhea, it may cause increasingly uncomfortable menstrual periods. The severity of your pain isn’t necessarily consistent with the severity of your condition. You need a complete, thorough pelvic exam to allow your gynecologist to make that determination.

Infertility is sometimes the first sign of endometriosis. You may not discover the condition until you seek answers from a doctor about your inability to get pregnant. You may also experience a general overall sense of being unwell, especially during your period. This may include excessive bloating and fatigue. You may also experience other bothersome symptoms when you have endometriosis, such as:

• Lower back pain
• Abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by diarrhea or constipation
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Heavy menstrual periods or bleeding between periods
• Blood in your stool or urine

What Causes Endometriosis?

The cause of endometriosis isn’t known for sure. Your body sloughs off blood cells every month; sometimes, it’s heavier than others. Some factors that are thought to be possible causes include:

• Genetics. Endometriosis appears to run in families.
• Retrograde menstrual flow. During your period, blood and tissue that should flow out of your body instead flows back into the fallopian tubes or pelvic cavity.
• Surgical implantation. Endometrial cells sometimes attach to a surgical incision after a procedure such as a caesarean section or a hysterectomy.
• Cell transport. Endometrial cells may be transported to other parts of the body by the lymphatic system.

Diagnosing Endometriosis

Your Queens doctor may be able to diagnose endometriosis during a pelvic exam if cysts have formed on reproductive organs. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound or an MRI confirm the cysts exist. Otherwise, your doctor may ask you to keep track of your symptoms, especially if they only occur during your monthly menstrual cycle. A detailed history helps your doctor correctly diagnose your problem and get you the most effective treatment.

Another diagnostic test your gynecologist may perform is a laparoscopy. This test is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Your doctor makes a tiny incision to insert a small camera to identify cysts or confirm the size and location of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Take Care of Your Gynecological Health

Don’t ignore symptoms of pelvic or abdominal discomfort that persists. Untreated endometriosis leads to inflammation, infertility or an increased risk of ovarian cysts or ovarian cancer. Talk to your doctor if you have any of the symptoms associated with endometriosis.