What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic, non-cancerous condition where endometrial-like tissue (similar to the lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus. Unfortunately, this tissue can appear on the ovaries, internal organs, intestines, pelvic area, and sometimes even affect the lungs, liver, or kidneys. Scientists haven’t pinpointed an exact cause yet, but one theory suggests that menstrual blood flowing backward into the abdominal cavity plays a role. Retrograde menstruation affects about 15% of women and usually isn’t a problem—unless the immune system isn’t working properly.
A Stealthy Condition
More than 190 million women worldwide are affected, with about 10% of women of reproductive age living with endometriosis. It’s notoriously hard to diagnose because its symptoms overlap with other conditions like IBS, and research data is limited. Much of what we know is still based on hypotheses rather than solid conclusions.
It’s important to know that the severity and number of symptoms don’t always match the seriousness of the disease.
Some women have mild symptoms but more severe disease, while others experience the opposite.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Painful periods
- Heavy bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Bloating (due to endometrial growth around the uterus)
- Nausea during menstruation
- Back pain
- Pain during urination and bowel movements
- Feeling unwell during periods
- Pain during intimacy
- Infertility or significantly reduced chances of pregnancy
Less Known, Rare Symptoms:
- Chronic fatigue that worsens during menstruation
- Blood in urine
- Leg pain
- Occasionally blood in stool (rare according to experts)
- Severe chest pain and breathing difficulties, especially during periods (very rare)
Possible Complications
In severe cases, organs can stick together, and bowel obstruction or kidney failure may develop. Endometriosis cells can sometimes enter the bloodstream and, in rare cases, even reach the brain.
Removing the affected tissue doesn’t always mean a full cure, as issues like urinary and bowel problems can still arise.
Many patients face not only physical challenges but also mental health struggles, as endometriosis symptoms can lower quality of life and sometimes lead to depression.
How Is It Diagnosed and Treated?
Because of its symptoms, endometriosis requires thorough examination when suspected. Ultrasounds often don’t provide clear answers, but MRI scans can offer more detail. Still, since imaging can miss some signs, doctors often recommend laparoscopic surgery. This allows them to locate and remove endometriosis lesions. In severe cases, an entire ovary might be removed.
After surgery, medications help prevent recurrence and manage symptoms. Choosing the right medication depends largely on whether the patient wants to have children. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are recommended for pain relief, and combined birth control pills can help stop the spread of lesions.
Pregnancy can reduce symptoms since menstruation stops and lesions shrink, but because endometriosis lowers fertility, many women with endometriosis may not see this as an option.
If you suspect you might have endometriosis, don’t hesitate to see a doctor—and if needed, seek a specialist or a center focused on endometriosis. The earlier it’s diagnosed, the better to avoid complications!
