ENDOMETRIOSIS TREATMENT
There were so many questions in my mind when I was diagnosed with endometriosis. How will I be able to have a baby? Will I have to undergo painful surgery?. Below are the Endometriosis treatment, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis.
Endometriosis is a female health disorder that occurs when cells from the lining of the womb grow in other areas of the body. It often takes a long time before it is diagnosed. It is generally held that about 10% of all women during their reproductive periods are affected by this condition. Endometriosis causes scar tissues and adhesions to develop that can distort a woman’s internal anatomy. In advanced stages the internal organs may fuse together causing a condition known as ‘frozen pelvis’.
TREATMENT
Endometriosis Treatment may be medical or surgical. The goal of treatment could be pain relief and/or enhancement of fertility. Many medications are available and the choice depends upon your doctor’s judgment according to your special case. Laparoscopic surgery is the gold standard of treatment. It is performed when medical treatment is ineffective and if other organs are being affected by the disease or for fertility enhancement. Laparoscopy helps to normalize anatomy, to remove endometriotic diseased tissue deposits by lasers or electrosurgery.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- May vary from no obvious discomfort to severe pain which affects the quality of life significantly. Pain may be during periods or may start even before periods.
- Painful intercourse.
- Infertility
(About 30-40% of women with endometriosis will have difficulty conceiving). - Irregular heavy periods.
- Lower back ache.
- Pain during urination or bowel movements.
CAUSES
The exact cause is unknown. Many theories have been put forward, which range from genetic to immunological systems.
DIAGNOSIS
Apart from clinical signs and symptoms, other modalities which may help are ultrasound (USG) and MRI. Again, laparoscopy is held to be the gold standard investigation for accurate diagnosis and also treatment.
