The endometrium comprises of the lining of the uterus. Endometriosis is a medical condition when the cells of endometrium are also found in other parts of a female body. The most commonplace for endometriosis is, of course, the pelvis, but itcan also be found in the abdominal cavity. Endometriosis is a chronic, often progressive medical condition. It is often painful, but with correct understanding and management, it is entirely manageable and even curable in some instances. 

Endometriosis is a common condition in Australian women, according to a survey around 7 percent of Australian women with ages 25–29 and 11 percent of women with ages 40–44 are likely to suffer from endometriosis. 

Causes of endometriosis:

The exact cause of endometriosis is not known, some of the contributing factors of endometriosis are:

• Family history of endometriosis

• Menorrhagia

• Early menarche

• Having first pregnancy when you’re older

• Autoimmune dysfunction

• Low body weight

• Alcohol use

Symptoms of endometriosis:

Some of the typical symptoms of endometriosis are:

• Heavy periods with or without irregular bleeding

• pelvic or abdominal pain before and during a period,

• Pain while having sex

• Bleeding between periods

• Changes in bowel or urination habits

• Feeling bloated especially around the time of your period

• Infertility

Diagnosis of endometriosis:

The diagnosis of endometriosis can be suggested by clinical presentation and symptom evaluation but usually requires laparoscopy (key hole surgery) for diagnosis and/or treatment.

Treatment of endometriosis:

Endometriosis is entirely manageable and treatable. The treatment strategy depends upon your presenting symptoms, fertility requirements, and how severe your endometriosis is. 

Medicines can usually include hormonal treatments like the pill or implantable devices or IUD and NSAIDs for pain. Hormone treatments work only as long as you take them, so the endometriosis might not be treated entirely, just managed by them. Specific surgical procedures are also available. They are targeted to remove as much of the endometrial tissue from abnormal areas as possible. There are several options, like a laparoscopic or open approach. Surgery can also be combined with medicines. In very severe and recurrent cases, when fertility is not a choice, a hysterectomy to remove the whole uterus is usually suggested.

 You can make an appointment with Dr Kenny on 3188 5000.

This article is written to be informative and does not substitute seeking a professional consultation from a medical professional