Endometriosis: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition in which there is an extra growth of endometrial cells in the external regions of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tube. This occurs most commonly in reproductive-aged women in their 20s. Endometrial cell growth can also occur in ovaries leading to endometrial lesions, which are referred to as pseudocysts or ovarian endometriomas.

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WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS

Endometriosis is a medical condition where the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows outside of it, typically on other reproductive organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or on the lining of the pelvis. These tissue growths can cause inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue that can interfere with the normal functioning of organs in the abdominal cavity.

Endometriosis can cause severe pelvic pain, painful menstrual periods, painful intercourse, and infertility. Treatment options for endometriosis can include pain management, hormonal therapy, or surgery, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individual needs of the patient.

TYPES OF ENDOMETRIOSIS

Superficial endometriosis

The least severe type of endometriosis wherein endometrial tissue is attached to the peritoneum.

1

Endometriomas

Type of endometriosis that is most common in ovaries and may appear in various pelvic regions.

2

Deep-infiltrating endometriosis

A rare type of endometriosis wherein the endometrial tissue invades the organs like rectum, bladder, bowels, and ovaries.

3

CAUSES

Peritoneal cell transformation
Embryonic cells transformed into endometrial cells
Surgical scar implantation- post-C-section and hysterectomy can cause endometriosis.
Menstruation blood flowing back towards fallopian tubes
Due to some immune disorders

SYMPTOMS

Excessive menstrual bleeding
Infertility
Dysuria- Extreme pain while peeing
Dyschezia- Extreme pain while pooping
Dyspareunia- Extreme pain in the genitals during sex
Dysmenorrhea - Extreme pain in pelvis during periods

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing endometrisois include:

Asking about medical history of the patient, previous pregnancies, or the family members having endometriosis.
Physical examination of the pelvic region
Ultrasound to get more information from pelvic images
MRI to further assess endometrial tissues
Laparascopy to confirm the diagnosis of endometriosis

DO's

Take prescribed medicines only

Consult your doctor regularly

Do exercise and take healthy diet

DONT's

Do not ignore your pain

Do not get depressed

Avoid unhealthy diet

TREATMENTS

Non- Surgical Treatment

Pharmacological therapy

Hormonal agents - Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog like danazol is used to alleviate the symptoms arising due to endometriosis.
Anti-inflammatory drugs - To reduce pain and inflammation drugs like progestins are prescribed.

SURGICAL TREATMENTS

Laparoscopic surgery- It is better than pharmacological agents because they maintain fertility capability. This surgical procedure involves excising out all the extra growing cells near the uterus, fallopian tube outside the ovaries and other endometriotic lesions. It helps in decreasing the inflammation in the pelvic region.
Cystectomy- This surgical procedure involves removing complete cysts formed during endometriosis. It helps in relieving pain and decreases the recurrence ratio.
Hysterectomy-This surgical procedure involves removing the inflamed uterus or ovaries.

Risk and Complications

Infertility
Subfertility
Chronic pelvic pain
Dysmenorrhea
Dyspareunia
Bladder dysfunction

IF LEFT UNTREATED

If you are ignoring endometriosis and do not want any treatment for this condition, it may get worse. It can lead to infertility or problems in conceiving. The endometrial cells can grow to other parts of the pelvic region around the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

COST

The average cost of laparoscopic hysterectomy to treat adenomyosis is ₹35,000 - ₹40,000. The cost varies from the type of surgical procedure, hospital facilities and cities.

Financial Options

No Cost EMI

Cashless
(Insurance)

Reimbursement
(Insurance)

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Insurance coverage for endometriosis treatment may vary depending on the individual insurance plan, the specific treatment being considered, and the severity of the condition. In general, insurance providers may cover treatments that are deemed medically necessary, such as medications or surgeries, if other less invasive treatments have failed to alleviate symptoms.

However, insurance coverage for endometriosis treatments may also be subject to certain restrictions or requirements. For example, insurance plans may require that certain diagnostic tests or procedures be performed before approving coverage for a particular treatment. Additionally, insurance providers may limit coverage for certain treatments based on factors such as age, medical history, or the specific symptoms experienced.

Know more about Endometriosis

The exact cause of endometriosis is not known, but several theories exist. One theory suggests that endometrial tissue may travel through the fallopian tubes and implant outside the uterus. Another theory suggests that endometrial tissue may grow in other parts of the body due to hormonal imbalances or immune system dysfunction.

There is no cure for endometriosis, but with appropriate treatment, most women are able to manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life. Women with endometriosis may also benefit from lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction techniques.

It is important for women with symptoms of endometriosis to seek medical attention, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve outcomes. Women with endometriosis may also benefit from support groups or counseling to manage the emotional and psychological impact of the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Three major symptoms of endometriosis are painful periods, excessive bleeding, and painful bowel.

Three main causes of endometriosis are early onset of periods, never getting pregnant, and early onset of menopause.

A woman suffering from endometriosis has to go through abdominal pain before and after periods, pain while having sex, pain while urinating, and even fertility problems.

It is a serious health issue associated with life impacting discomfort and pain. It decreases the quality of life due to abdominal pain and extended periods.

The treatment of endometriosis mainlly focuses on easing the symptoms that interfere in daily life activities. Relieving pain and resolving fertility problems are focused. But there is no permanent cure for the disease till date.

The Ayurveda diet for endometriosis involves a focus on anti-inflammatory foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil and nuts.

Milk may exacerbate symptoms of endometriosis due to its estrogen content, which can promote the growth of endometrial tissue.

Endometriosis can be removed surgically through laparoscopic excision, in which the abnormal tissue is carefully cut away from surrounding organs.

Yes, it is possible to have both PCOS and endometriosis. These conditions may share some overlapping symptoms, such as pelvic pain and irregular periods, and may require different treatment approaches depending on the severity of symptoms and individual needs of the patient.

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Endometriosis: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS