Endometriosis is a chronic and often debilitating condition that affects roughly 10% of women worldwide. It is often misdiagnosed resulting in many women going undiagnosed for years. So here is our comprehensive guide on understanding and managing this chronic condition.
It occurs when the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, typically on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or other pelvic organs. This misplaced tissue behaves just like the uterine lining, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding with each menstrual cycle.
The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to factors such as retrograde menstruation, genetics, and immune system dysfunction. Endometriosis can manifest in various ways, with the most common symptoms including:
- Pelvic pain, especially during menstruation
- Painful intercourse
- Painful bowel movements or urination
- Infertility
- Fatigue, nausea, and vomiting
It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms does not always correlate with the stage or extent of the disease. Some women with mild endometriosis may experience severe pain, while others with advanced endometriosis may have minimal or no symptoms.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention from a professional like Dr. Raouf Farag, a Central Coast gynaecologist at Coastal Women’s Health.
Dr. Farag and his team are focused on diagnosing and treating endometriosis, including the most severe form, deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE), which can affect the bladder, bowel, and rectum.
Endometriosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of pelvic examination, specialised ultrasound, MRI, and/or laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to visually inspect the pelvic organs and confirm the presence of endometriosis.
Treatment Options
Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options available to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for women with endometriosis. These include:
1. Medication: Hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills, progestin-only medications, or GnRH agonists, can help reduce the growth and activity of endometrial tissue.
2. Surgical treatment: Dr. Farag and the Coastal Women’s Health team are experienced in laparoscopic excision of endometriosis, which involves the removal of endometrial implants and adhesions. This can provide significant relief from pain and improve fertility.
3. Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress can help alleviate endometriosis symptoms.
4. Complementary therapies: Some women find relief through the use of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, or pelvic floor physiotherapy.
It’s important to note that there is no definitive cure for endometriosis, but with the right treatment plan and support, many women are able to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
If you suspect you may have endometriosis, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Raouf Farag and our team at Coastal Women’s Health. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for women with this chronic condition.