What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a complex, multifactorial disorder defined by the presence of endometrium-like tissue outside the uterine cavity.
“Dr. Astha Dayal, director of obstetrics and gynecology, CK Birla Hospital Gurgaon also added, Endometriosis can cause persistent inflammatory responses that culminate in the formation of scar tissue (adhesions, fibrosis) both inside the pelvic cavity and in extra-pelvic regions.”
“Affecting about 10% (190 million) of women and girls of childbearing age around the world.”
This ectopic tissue could be on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the outside of the uterus, or another organ in the pelvis. In some cases, it may spread past the pelvic area.
What is Endometriosis Awareness Week?
Every year, we have Endometriosis Awareness Week to shine a light on endometriosis. It’s a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it.
During the first week of March, we’re all about raising awareness about the condition, supporting those affected by it, and motivating everyone to advocate for improved evaluation & treatment.
Learn the facts about Endometriosis
- According to WHO reports Endometriosis impacts around 10% (190 million) of women and girls of reproductive age worldwide.
- According to several research publications, endometriosis is a public health problem impacting around 247 million women worldwide and over 42 million people in India.
It is a chronic condition characterized by intense,
- Debilitating pain during menstruation,
- Sexual intercourse,
- Bowel movements, and/or urine, along with chronic pelvic discomfort,
- Abdominal distension,
- Nausea, exhaustion, and
- Occasionally depression, anxiety, and infertility.
20 symptoms of endometriosis
Here’s a detailed explanation of the 20 symptoms of endometriosis by Dr. Astha Dayal, Director and OB-GYN at CK Birla Hospital in Gurgaon, and founder of Disha Clinic, one of the top gynecology treatment clinic in Gurgaon:
1. Pelvic Pain
Dr. Dayal says that people with endometriosis often have chronic or repetitive pelvic pain, especially when they are menstruating. This pain is caused by inflammation and adhesions.
2. Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
Dr Astha also says Endometrial tissue outside the uterus responds to hormonal changes, leading to severe cramps that worsen over time.
3. Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
Endometriosis that has spread deep into the pelvic regions can cause pain during or after sexual activity.
4. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia)
Dr Astha also says hormonal abnormalities that may occur as a consequence of endometriosis can cause menstrual bleeding that is either excessive or protracted.
5. Irregular Periods
The disturbance of hormones that endometriosis causes might potentially result in cycles that are unpredictable.
6. Chronic Lower Back Pain
Pain that originates in the pelvic area and is caused by inflammation and scarring may extend to the lower back.
7. Pain with Bowel Movements or Urination
It is important to note that Dr. Dayal underlines that discomfort during these activities, particularly during menstruation, may be an indication of endometriosis that involves the intestines or the bladder.
8. Infertility
Infertility may be caused by endometriosis because it causes anatomical and functional abnormalities in the reproductive organs, which makes it difficult to conceive a child because of these alterations.
9. Fatigue
Dr. Dayal points out that dealing with chronic pain and inflammation can really wear you out, leaving you feeling constantly tired and low on energy.
10. Bloating (“Endo Belly”)
So, you know that abdominal swelling or bloating? It’s often connected to inflammation and those hormonal changes that come with endometriosis.
Battling endometriosis? Make sure you don’t fall prey to these myths
Dr Dayal has to say: “Women suffer from endometriosis when the endometrial tissue that lines the inside of the womb is found outside the uterus or various sites such as ovaries, bowel and the lining of the pelvis.”
Endometriosis triggers a chronic Inflammation reaction, resulting in pain and adhesions. While some women who suffer from endometriosis experience severe pelvic pain, upto 15-20 percent of women with endometriosis may have no symptoms at all. Some may even regard their symptoms as regular menstrual pain.
11. Nausea or Vomiting
In many cases, these symptoms are associated with acute pain or hormonal reactions, and they may have a substantial influence on day-to-day living.
12. Constipation
It is possible for endometriosis to cause trouble passing feces, particularly during menstruation, when it is located near the intestines.
13. Diarrhea
On the other hand, diarrhea is a symptom that some women encounter because of the closeness of lesions to the digestive system.
14. Pain in the Rectal Region
The rectum may get infected with endometriosis, which can be quite uncomfortable, particularly when it comes to bowel motions.
15. Aches and pains in the hips or legs
As a result of deep infiltrating endometriosis, which affects nerves, radiating discomfort in the legs or hips may be experienced.
16. Urinary Urgency or Frequency
Urinary tract infections may be mistaken for bladder involvement, which is characterized by an ongoing urge to pee.
17. Blood seen in the stool or urine
Endometrial tissue in the bladder or colon may sometimes cause blood to be produced during the process of urinating or defecating.
18. Pain in the Shoulder
An individual who suffers from diaphragmatic endometriosis may have referred discomfort in the shoulder, as stated by Dr. Dayal.
19. The Mood Swings
The presence of anxiety, impatience, and mood swings is often associated with the presence of chronic pain and hormone abnormalities.
20. Difficulty in Breathing,
On account of lesions on the diaphragm, thoracic endometriosis is a very uncommon condition that may result in chest discomfort or trouble breathing.
Treatment of Endometriosis by Dr. Astha Dayal
Dr. Astha Dayal focuses on advanced laparoscopy, robotic surgery, and regenerative medicine to effectively treat endometriosis. She offers a well-rounded approach to care, covering everything from fertility management to pain relief and even minimally invasive procedures.
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, chatting with an expert like Dr. Astha Dayal can really help you get a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan that’s just right for you.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1471491424001667
https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/endometriosis-facts-and-figures#4
