Endometriosis

The likelihood of developing endometriosis is higher for women who:

• Have a close family member, such as a mother, sister, or aunt, with endometriosis
• Began menstruating at a young age (before 11 years old), known as early menarche
• Experience short menstrual cycles of less than 27 days
• Have heavy periods or menstruate for longer than 7 days
• Have never been pregnant
• Give birth for the first time after 30 years of age
• Have structural abnormalities in the uterus
• Suffer from medical conditions that hinder normal blood flow during menstruation
• Have reproductive tract disorders
• Consume alcohol excessively
• Engage in sexual intercourse during menstruation
• Have a low body mass index

Endometriosis can be diagnosed through various methods:

• Pelvic Examination: A routine pelvic exam conducted by a gynecologist after reviewing your medical history.
• USG Whole Abdomen: A diagnostic imaging technique using high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal abdominal structures.
• CT Scan: A noninvasive imaging method combining X-rays and computer technology to detect pelvic abnormalities.
• MRI Scan: Used to visualize the organs of the pelvis and lower abdomen.
• Laparoscopy: Considered the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis, this procedure uses a laparoscope, a thin device with a light and camera, to view the pelvic organs.
• Histological Examination: In certain cases, a biopsy or tissue sample may be taken during laparoscopy and sent for lab analysis.

Specialist to Visit

If you experience symptoms of endometriosis, it’s important to consult with a gynecologist or obstetrician as soon as possible.

In India, many women do not have a regular gynecologist like they do a family doctor or general physician. Here's a guide to the types of gynecologists to consult for gynecological issues.

Endometriosis can be managed with medication or surgery. Below are common treatment options:

Pain Medication:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen, can provide temporary relief from pain. If these are ineffective, stronger medications may be prescribed.

Hormonal Therapy:

Hormonal treatments reduce estrogen levels, which are directly related to endometriosis, helping to lessen bleeding, inflammation, scarring, and cyst formation.

Common hormones include:

Oral Contraceptives:

These suppress ovarian function. Examples include Desogestrel and Etonogestrel.

Danazol:

A synthetic form of testosterone (a male hormone).

Progestin:

These drugs suppress ovarian activity by affecting female hormone levels. One example is Medroxyprogesterone.

GnRH Analogues:

These are given as injections to reduce ovarian function and lower hormone levels. Leuprolide is a common GnRH analogue.

Devices:

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) like the levonorgestrel system are placed in the uterus to suppress endometrial activity and help regulate menstrual flow.

Surgery:

Surgery is often considered a last resort. It can be performed laparoscopically or via open surgery. The procedure involves excising or burning (fulguration) the endometriotic tissue and removing scar tissue, which can relieve pain. Repositioning the ovaries and fallopian tubes during surgery can also enhance a woman’s chances of conceiving.

If endometriosis is severe or diagnosed and treated later, it may lead to certain complications, including:

• Fertility Issues: Endometriosis can affect fertility by altering the shape of the pelvis and reproductive organs, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg. It may also cause inflammation that interferes with the function of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, or egg. In some cases, the immune system may attack the embryo. However, many women with endometriosis conceive without treatment, although for others, it can be more challenging. Medication may not always improve fertility, but surgery to remove endometriotic tissue can help.

• Ovarian Cysts and Adhesions: Endometriosis can lead to adhesions (sticky areas of tissue that can bind organs together) and ovarian cysts, which may become painful and large. Surgery is often required to treat these issues.

• Bladder and Bowel Problems: Endometriosis can affect bladder and bowel functions, sometimes requiring significant surgery to remove parts of the bladder or intestine.

• Cancer: Women with endometriosis may have a slightly higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Additionally, a rare type of cancer, endometriosis-associated adenocarcinoma, can develop in those with long-term endometriosis.

Here are a few herbal and home remedies that might help manage endometriosis:

• Curcumin (Turmeric): Curcumin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiproliferative properties beneficial for treating endometriosis symptoms. You can consume turmeric as a tablet or mix a teaspoon into your tea or milk.

• Puerarin: Puerarin, found in kudzu plants, contains isoflavonoids that mimic estrogen effects. This can help alleviate some endometriosis symptoms by binding to estrogen receptors.

• Resveratrol: Found in grapes, peanuts, mulberries, and other plants, resveratrol is an antioxidant that may be beneficial for endometriosis

• Green Tea: Green tea is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent the formation of new blood vessels and inhibits the function of microvessels in endometrial lesions, reducing their size and growth.

If you're dealing with endometriosis, the following simple steps may help alleviate some of the symptoms:

• Rest: Make sure to get adequate rest. Using a hot pack, heating pad, or hot water bottle can also help soothe the pain.
• Warm Baths: Long warm baths can provide relief for pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis.
• Prevent Constipation: Constipation is common in women with endometriosis. Staying hydrated and including fiber-rich foods in your diet can help relieve this symptom.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity enhances blood circulation, ensuring nutrients and oxygen reach all body systems. Regular exercise can also reduce pelvic pain linked to endometriosis.
• Painkillers: If the pain becomes severe, consult your doctor about using pain relief medications.

Here are some practical tips for living with endometriosis and easing the symptoms:

• Hot Pack: Applying a hot water bottle or heating pad to your lower abdomen can help improve circulation and relax muscles. Warm baths are also soothing.

• Rest: If the pain becomes intense, resting is crucial. Lie on your back with a pillow under your knees or curl up on your side with your knees pulled to your chest to relieve pressure on your lower back.

• Exercise: Regular exercise releases natural pain-relievers called endorphins, improves circulation, and boosts the flow of nutrients and oxygen to your body’s systems.

• Balanced Diet: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for managing endometriosis. Including plenty of fiber in your diet can prevent painful straining during bowel movements.

• Alternative Treatments: Techniques like muscle relaxation, deep breathing, biofeedback, and yoga can help with pain relief. Acupuncture may also be beneficial for managing painful periods.