What is Endometriosis
Definition:
Endometriosis is a medical condition where tissue similar to the endometrium (lining of the uterus) grows in your body . This tissue can fuse organs together and/ or create adhesions that vary in color (black, red, clear, yellow). Unfortunately, the exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown. Endometriosis may impair with fertility. Getting diagnosed and getting the lesions removed earlier may reduce the chance of fertility issues. Endometriosis is classified in 5 stages as followed:
Stage I (Minimal):
There are few superficial implants or small lesions on the pelvic lining or organs. There may be minimal adhesions, and the condition is generally considered mild in severity.
Stage II (Mild):
Involves slightly deeper implants and lesions than in stage I. These lesions may also affect the ovaries and form small cysts known as endometriomas. Mild adhesions may be present.
Stage III (Moderate):
In stage III endometriosis, the implants and lesions are more widespread, deeper, and may be present. The adhesions are more
significant, leading to distortion and tethering of organs.
Stage IV (Severe):
Most advanced and severe form of the condition. The implants and adhesions are extensive, and there may be large endometriomas and deep infiltrating lesions affecting multiple organs.
It's important to note that the severity of symptoms and the extent of endometriosis do not always correlate directly. Some individuals with mild endometriosis may experience severe pain and fertility issues, while others with advanced endometriosis may have minimal symptoms. Additionally, the stage of endometriosis does not necessarily determine the best treatment approach, as management should be individualized based on the person's symptoms, fertility goals, and overall health.
If someone is experiencing symptoms of endometriosis or suspects they may have the condition, they should seek medical attention from a gynecologist or healthcare provider experienced in managing endometriosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help improve the person's quality of life and preserve fertility if desired.
Symptoms:
- Extensive menstrual cramp pain that is felt in the abdomen or lower back. (that does not respond to medication like ibuprofen).
- Constant pelvic and lower abdominal pain
- Abnormal or heavy menstrual flow
- Infertility
- Painful urination during menstrual periods
- Painful bowel movements during menstrual periods
- Gastrointestinal problems like, diarrhea, constipation, and/or nausea.
* The amount of pain that one experiences with endometriosis does not determine the severity of the disease*
*Symptoms can be constant or worsen before and during menstrual period*
Diagnosis:
The only way to get a definitive diagnosis of Endometriosis is through a laparoscopic surgery. It is typically performed under general anesthesia. During laparoscopy, a thin, lighted instrument called a laparoscope is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to examine the pelvic organs directly. The surgeon can identify and assess endometrial implants, adhesions, and other abnormalities. Tissue samples (biopsies) may also be taken for confirmation. There are two types of laparoscopic surgery- ablation and excision. Many differentiate the two using the "flower method". Ablation is where your surgeon burns the surface of the endometrial implants- in other words, you going out to your garden and cutting only what you see of a weed leaving the roots intact. Excision is where the entire implants and adhesions are removed- shoveling the entire weed out of the garden. Excision is seen as the gold standard.
*Surgery is not a cure for endometriosis*
Treatment:
As of now there is no cure for endometriosis. The treatment for endometriosis is tailored to each individual based on the severity of symptoms, the extent of the condition, and the person's reproductive goals. The main goals of treatment are to alleviate pain, improve quality of life, and address fertility concerns if applicable. Some treatment options include:
- OTC Pain medication ( NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen)
- Hormonal therapy (birth control)
- Surgery ( removal of adhesion and implants may decrease intensity of symptoms)
- Chinese medicine like acupuncture
- Diet Change (reducing the intake of inflammatory foods like dairy, gluten, sugar, alcohol)
