The female reproductive system is an extraordinary system that is capable of helping conceive, support, and grow a life. Unfortunately, certain issues with the system can affect a woman's healthy, wellness, and ability to conceive/carry a child. Endometriosis is a common disorder, even though many women are not familiar with it. This guide will help you understand endometriosis, which can be beneficial for a diagnosis and treatment if you are currently suffering with the condition.
Signs of Endometriosis
One of the first things you need to know is that the signs of endometriosis vary from person to person. In most cases, the disorder will cause the following symptoms:
- Severe cramping
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Long menstrual periods
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Chronic fatigue
- Bowel difficulties
- Urinary difficulties
- Infertility
To understand why these symptoms are common, you need to understand what exactly endometriosis entails.
During a normal period, the lining of the uterus, or endometrium, is shed, resulting in you bleeding for a certain amount of time during the month. Endometriosis occurs when the endometrial lining is shed and builds up on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, pelvic floor, and even the bowels and appendix in some instances.
Endometriosis Is Not Rare
Most women are surprised by a diagnosis of endometriosis. However, the disorder is actually more common than most people believe.
While shocking to learn, an estimated 200,000 women worldwide are diagnosed with endometriosis. In addition, many other women have the condition, but do not realize it.
Because it can cause a great deal of discomfort and infertility issues, contacting your obgyn is imperative if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms.
Treatment Is Possible
Preventing endometriosis is not possible, but there are treatment options available if you have the disease. Laparoscopic excision, which is a minimally-invasive surgery, is the most common treatment option available.
During the procedure, a deep excision is performed. This involves excising/removing the uterine lesions that have build up on various parts of the fallopian tubes, ovaries, etc.
A cold excision may be recommended, as well. During the laparoscopic procedure, your doctor will use a special heat laser to burn off and destroy the lesions.
Finally, a hysterectomy is an option for treating endometriosis. This surgical procedure involves removing all or a portion of the uterus and connecting reproductive organs. Hysterectomies are only recommended in severe cases of endometriosis, since it will permanently alter your life and ability to have a period, conceive, carry a child. Talk to your OBGYN for more information.