Endometriosis is a condition wherein the tissue or inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity. This lining, called the endometrium, may be found on the ovaries, in the cervix, lymph nodes, fallopian tubes or even in the bowel region. It is rare for endometriosis to be found above the pelvic cavity in endometriosis. Affecting over 10 percent of women, endometriosis is a common disorder that is often connected to changes in the hormonal cycle and menstruation in women. In this article, we shall discuss the causes, symptoms and treatment of endometriosis.
Causes of Endometriosis
There is no defined cause of endometriosis. Research says that symptoms of endometriosis may be found in a developing foetus, although high oestrogen levels, allergies, asthma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and autoimmune diseases may be possible triggers. Endometriosis, like many other medical conditions, may also occur due to genetics.
Read related- 4 Reasons to Visit a Gynaecologist for Regular Checkups
Symptoms of Endometriosis
Just as the lining of the uterus going through the cycle of inflammation, breakdown and shedding as part of the monthly menstrual cycle, so does this tissue outside of the uterine cavity go through a similar cycle. The broken-down tissue does not shed like the one in the uterine cavity and hence may cause:
- Irritation and discomfort in the pelvic region
- Infertility
- Painful menstruation accompanied by cramps and back pain
- Formation of scars in the pelvic region
- Painful copulation
- Heavy bleeding during menstruation
- Visible scars in the pelvic region
- Painful bowel & bladder movements
- Nausea & vomiting
- Blood in the bowels or urine
- Spotting between periods
- Longer menstrual cycles & irregular periods
In many cases, endometriosis may go undetected for years as women perceive painful menstruation, constipation, and discomfort as part of their monthly cycle. Alternatively, endometriosis may cause severe pain in patients even in the initial stages, prompting patients to seek medical assistance immediately from a gynecologist doctor in Gurgaon.
If gone undetected, endometriosis can even cause ovarian cysts, blocking of fallopian tubes, intestinal complications, and chances of cancer. It is advisable to consult a gynecologist in Delhi if one experiences more than two of the said symptoms.
Diagnosis & Treatment of Endometriosis
Gynecologists in Gurgaon diagnose endometriosis through pelvic examinations, ultrasounds, MRIs and laparoscopic observations. There is no cure for endometriosis, but the symptoms and pain can be managed in various ways.
The foremost approach to managing symptoms is through over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Hormone therapy can also help arrest the progression of endometriosis. This therapy helps regulate the monthly hormonal changes and oestrogen levels that cause the inflammation and breakdown of the endometrium. This may even prevent, shorten or reduce the intensity of the monthly period. Birth control pills, progestin contraceptives or vaginal rings are some of the options available.
Lastly, if none of the above help, a gynecologist in Gurgaon may suggest surgery. Surgery may be done through a minimally invasive approach to remove the endometrium growing outside of the uterine cavity. This may reduce symptoms and even improve fertility for a said period. There are chances of endometriosis symptoms and pain resurfacing after a while.
If the patient is comfortable, a gynecologist in Gurgaon may even suggest a hysterectomy to remove the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes as necessary.
Wrap Up
Endometriosis, like most other disorders is not a one way street, especially if diagnosed at an early stage. If you or a loved one has been experiencing any of the symptoms of Endometriosis we have listed, wasted no time in consulting a reputable gynecologist through a trusted platform such as Meddo, India’s first clinic chain aggregator, empanelling on the best in the field of healthcare. To book an appointment with leading gynecologists in Gurgaon, Delhi, and nearby areas, click here.
