Endometriosis Explained Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

1. What Is Endometriosis? Endometriosis tissue is the lining inside the uterus that becomes thick and breaks down and sheds during menstruation. Endometriosis is a condition where a similar tissue lining of the uterus starts to grow outside of the uterus, which further starts to impact fertility. According to the WHO, 1 out of 10 women has endometriosis, while some are yet to be diagnosed. Sometimes, women mistakenly consider symptoms of endometriosis as bad periods.

2. Common Symptoms of Endometriosis Severe Cramps Pain During Intercourse Heavy or Irregular Periods Pain During Urination or Bowel Movements Chronic Pelvic Pain Infertility Fatigue, Bloating, Nausea

3. What Causes Endometriosis? Retrograde Menstruation- When the menstrual blood containing endometrial cells starts to flow backwards into the pelvic cavity, it causes the growth of abnormal tissue. Some studies suggested that immune factors or hormones transform the cells that line the abdomen into endometrial-like cells. It also happens due to the absence of cell transport from the uterus directly. Immune System Issues- The dysfunctional immune system, including peritoneal and neutrophils, and macrophages, releases the biochemical factors that promote lesion and angiogenic growth. Also, immune cells release cytokines, which further lead to inflammation, which is a key feature of endometriosis.

4. What Causes Endometriosis? Genetics - If a woman’s first-degree relative, like a mother or sister, has the condition, then it passed to the condition. Based on NIH, genetic endometriosis remains unexplained. And living in a toxic environment and having unhealthy habits worsen the situation. Hormonal Imbalances – Increase estrogen synthesis and receptor activity, create endometriotic lesions and increase cell proliferation and growth. The level disturbance of progesterone disrupts the signal pathways of hormones, causes inflammation, and interferes with the process of decidualization (high progesterone causes issues in stromal cells transforming into decidual cells).

5. How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility? Inflammation: Inflammation reduces ovarian reserve, affects follicular development, impairs oocyte quality, increases the risk of ovulation disorder, and adhesion scars the fallopian tube, impairing the ability to pick eggs and transport them to the uterus. It also impacts the uterine lining, making it less receptive to embryo implantation. Avoidance of Sexual Activity: Superficial dyspareunia, which is a pain around the vaginal introitus makes it difficult to have intercourse. This also causes issues in sustaining the outcomes, leading to avoidance of engaging in any sexual activity, which makes it difficult to conceive because of the pain. Prevent Egg Release or Fertilisation: Scars from endometriosis cause interference in releasing eggs from ovaries, because they block the fallopian tube, preventing them from releasing eggs traveling to the uterus.

6. Diagnosis of Endometriosis Pelvic Exam: First doctor examines the unusual changes by checking your pelvis and analyzing the changes like cysts, painful spots, irregular growth like nodules, or any scars. Ultrasound: If any issue is detected during the pelvic exam ultrasound test is conducted to get an image of the inside of the body. Although it won’t confirm the issue, but can help to detect cysts. MRI: The magnetic field and radio waves are used to get the image of the tissues and organs, which gives detailed information about the location and size of the cyst or endometriosis growth.

7. Diagnosis of Endometriosis Laparoscopy: It is also referred to as the surgical process, where doctors check the inside of the abdomen. Through a minimally invasive surgical process, a thin tube with a camera helps to analyse the pelvic cavity.

8. Treatment Options: Pain Management: Over-the-counter options like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), GnRG agonists, hormonal IUDs, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen are recommended by doctors to regulate hormones, relieve pain, and reduce inflammation. Hormonal Therapy: It includes birth control pills to regulate the menstrual cycle, progestin therapy to reduce the growth of endometriosis tissue, and relief of pain. GnRH agonists lower estrogen levels, causing temporary menopause, which further shrinks endometriosis tissue.

9. Treatment Options: Surgery: Laparoscopy- a thin small incision is inserted along with the camera, and through the surgical tool, endometrial tissue is removed. Hysterectomy- In severe cases, the uterus is removed to ensure the patient’s health. Laparotomy- a surgical incision is made in the abdominal wall to access the pelvic cavity and then destroy the tissue causing endometriosis. Oophorectomy- ovaries are moved with hysterectomy, which leads to a permanent stoppage in hormone production.

10. Lifestyle & Home Remedies Heat Pads- Heat pads help to relax pelvic muscles, which reduces pain and enhances blood circulation. Anti-inflammatory Diet- Omega-3, whole grains, arugula, broccoli, cauliflower, sprouts, tune, and anti-oxidant foods like raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries can be added to your diet. Yoga- This is one of the best exercises to manage stress, improve blood circulation, and manage pain, but it is essential to deal with endometriosis. It also aids in strengthening pelvic floor muscles, contributing to pain relief.

11. Conclusion Endometriosis need not control your life—compassionate care can make a difference. If painful menstrual cycles, pain, or difficulty getting pregnant are causing you problems, don’t delay seeking help. Prompt diagnosis and tailored treatment can significantly change life. At Cradle Hospital, our compassionate experts offer professional gynecologic care with accuracy at each stage. Contact Us Website - Cradle Children Hospital Phone +91 83770 10161