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ENDOMETRIOSIS
Overview
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that usually lines the inner part of the uterus — the endometrium — grows outside the uterus. It is a painful disorder that involves the woman’s ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining the pelvis. It is rare for the endometrium to stretch the pelvic organs.Symptoms of Endometriosis
The most basic symptom of endometriosis is pain in the pelvic area,which is commonly associated with pain during the menstrual cycle. Though most women have stomach cramps during their periods, but the women who suffer from endometriosis, experience a pain that’s far worse. Pain while urination and bowel movements are also common.
• Painful menstrual cycle
The periods, as discussed above, are painful. But pain in the pelvic
and the cramping starts before the periods begin and continues a few
days after periods too.
• Pain during sexual intercourse
In endometriosis, pain during sex is also common.
• Heavy Bleeding
Along with painful periods you may also experience excessive bleeding during your periods.
• Infertility
Women seeking treatment for infertility are often diagnosed with
endometriosis.
Causes of Endometriosis
The exact reason behind endometriosis is not certain, however, it is believed that the following factors contribute to endometriosis.- Retrograde Menstruation where rather than flowing out of the body, the blood flows back through the fallopian tubes and enters the pelvic cavity.
- Sometimes, during puberty the estrogen hormones transform embryonic cells into endometrial cell implants.
- Often an immune system disorder can make the body destroy the endometrial tissue that grows outside the uterus.
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Procedure of Endometriosis Treatment
The procedure of Endometriosis Treatment involves the following:-
Diagnosis
As most of the symptoms of endometriosis are very similar to issues like ovarian cysts and pelvic inflammatory disease, the doctor will do a detailed diagnosis. -
History of the Patient
Your family history, personal symptoms and experiences will be taken into account. -
Physical Examination
The doctor may do an examination of your pelvic area, feel your abdomen to look for cysts or any scars behind your uterus. -
Ultrasound
The doctor may also do a transvaginal or an abdominal Ultrasound to get images of your reproductive organs. Twos would help him get a clearer picture and also help him find out if the endometriosis is linked to cysts. -
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a certain way to identify the endometriosis as it helps in viewing it directly. Once seen, the said tissue can be removed by laparoscopy itself.
Risk Factors
It is estimated that Endometriosis is a disorder that 3-9% of the female population and develops after puberty only. The biggest risk factor is pain, but you need to know the other factors too.Though the symptoms may show at puberty, but it mostly affects women in the age bracket of 25 to 40 years.
It can be genetic. If your mother, grandmother or sister have it, you may get it too.
A pregnant woman has lesser chances of developing the disorder. If during periods you have shorter cycles, heavier and longer periods or in case your periods started at a very early age, you may want to consult your doctor.
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