5 things to know about endometriosis
So, let's get into a health issue that affects women that might sound a bit intimidating but is super important to know about: endometriosis.
Your uterus lining (the endometrium) is like a cosy blanket getting ready for a potential baby to snuggle into. But sometimes, instead of just staying in place where it's supposed to, this lining, of its own accord, moves outside of your uterus and can end up on your ovaries, Fallopian tubes, or even your bladder or bowel.
Now, this may sound harmless, but it can cause some serious trouble. When that lining decides to go rogue, it can lead to pain during your period, pain during sex, and even trouble getting pregnant down the line.
Admittedly, that does sound quite bizarre and worrying. Let’s understand this issue a bit more.
Misplaced tissue
Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, or other pelvic organs. It behaves like the normal endometrial tissue, thickening, breaking down and bleeding during menstrual cycles.
Potential causes
Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, or other pelvic organs. It behaves like the normal endometrial tissue, thickening, breaking down and bleeding during menstrual cycles.
According to the World Health Organization, “Endometriosis is thought to arise due to retrograde menstruation when menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the Fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity at the time that blood is flowing out of the body through the cervix and vagina during periods.”
Signs and symptoms
Endometriosis can manifest differently for each person. Common symptoms include pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, excessive bleeding, and infertility. However, some women may experience no symptoms at all.
Help at hand
Treatment options involving hormone therapy can have an impact on hormone levels, or interfere with the body's natural hormone production. It's important to know that hormone therapy can affect fertility, so it may not be suitable for everyone.
Hormone therapy can be administered in various forms, such as pills, injections, or nasal sprays. Common options include:
- Combination oral contraceptives containing oestrogen and progesterone to regulate hormone levels.
- Progestins, which can stop menstrual periods and minimise the growth of endometrial tissue.
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists, which work to suppress ovarian hormones.
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, which effectively stop ovarian hormone production.
For managing endometriosis-related pain, your doctor could recommend pain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen.
It’s best not to ignore these symptoms. Always get a check-up and get the best treatment you can, as soon as you can.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.