What is Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment.

Endometriosis is one of the painful conditions a woman goes through when a tissue that lines grows outside the uterus.

Endometriosis is a painful condition that affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes and tissue lining the pelvis. In the rare cases, endometriosis growths may be found beyond the area where pelvic organs are located. 

• Endometriosis tissue acts as the lining inside the uterus thickens, breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. 
• It grows in the unexpected place and it doesn’t leave the body. These patches of tissues are called ‘implants’, ‘lesions’ or ‘nodules’. They are found often
  • On or under the ovaries
  • On fallopian tubes
  • Behind the uterus
  • On the tissue that holds the uterus in place. 
  • On the bowels 
• When endometriosis involves the ovaries, the surrounding tissues can become irritated and form scar tissue. 

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis signs are not evident, but when symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Back pain during your period
• Severe menstrual cramps
• Pain during bowel movements or urination, especially during your period
• Unusual or heavy bleeding during periods
• Blood in your stool or urine
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Painful sex
• Persistent fatigue
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Beware that the severity of your symptoms doesn’t always match the amount of endometrial tissue. You might have a lot of tissue but no symptoms, or just a small amount causing significant discomfort.

Causes of Endometriosis

Doctors don’t fully understand what causes endometriosis, but several theories exist:

• Retrograde Menstruation: Menstrual blood contains endometrial cells that flow backwards through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity, where the cells attach to organs.
• Genetics: Sometimes, it is hereditary and research suggests that the condition can worsen across generations.
• Immune System Disorders: Some people with endometriosis have immune system disorders, though it’s unclear if there’s a direct connection.

• Transformation of Peritoneal Cells: Hormones or immune factors might cause peritoneal cells (which line the inner abdomen) to change into endometrial-like cells.
• Embryonic Cell Transformation: During puberty, hormones like estrogen may turn embryonic cells (early-stage development cells) into endometrial-like cells.
• Surgical Scar Implantation: Endometrial cells might attach to a surgical incision from procedures like a hysterectomy or C-section.
• Endometrial Cell Transport: Blood vessels or the lymphatic system may transport endometrial cells to other parts of the body.

Types of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is grouped into four types, based on the affected area.

• Superficial Peritoneal Endometriosis

The peritoneum is a thin layer that covers your abdomen and pelvis, as well as many of your organs. In superficial peritoneal endometriosis, endometrial tissue attaches to this layer. This is the mildest form of endometriosis.

• Endometriomas

Often called chocolate cysts, these are dark, fluid-filled sacs. They can vary in size and appear in different areas of your pelvis or abdomen but are most commonly found on the ovaries.

• Deeply Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE)

In deeply infiltrating endometriosis, the endometrial tissue grows into organs within or outside the pelvic cavity, such as the ovaries, rectum, bladder, and bowels. It’s a rare form and can sometimes lead to a condition called “frozen pelvis,” where scar tissue causes organs to stick together. This occurs in only 1% to 5% of people with endometriosis.

• Abdominal Wall Endometriosis

In some cases, endometrial tissue can grow on the abdominal wall, sometimes attaching to a surgical scar, such as from a C-section.

Treatment for Endometriosis

While there is no cure for endometriosis, there are treatments to help manage the symptoms. Lotus Hospital experts will guide you to choose the best treatment for your needs.

• Pain Relievers: Options like ibuprofen (NSAIDs) and prescription medications specifically for endometriosis. In severe cases, opioids may be prescribed.
• Hormone Therapy: Hormone treatments stop the ovaries from producing hormones, which can slow the growth of endometrial tissue and prevent new growth. Options include:
  • Birth control pills
  • Progestin therapy
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) medications, which cause temporary menopause. After stopping, the menstrual cycle begins, and pregnancy is possible.
• Surgical Treatments: For severe pain, surgery may be needed to remove endometriosis patches or cut pelvic nerves. This can be done through laparoscopy or more invasive surgery.

Treatments for Infertility Due to Endometriosis:

• Laparoscopy: A procedure to remove endometriosis patches.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A fertility treatment option if surgery doesn’t help.

Managing endometriosis can be challenging, but you can take better control of your symptoms by:

• Getting an early diagnosis from your care team.
• Learning as much as possible about endometriosis.
• Seeking treatment from a healthcare team with expertise across different medical fields, if necessary.

Early intervention and knowledge are key to managing the condition effectively. At Lotus Hospitals, we’re here to help you take control of your health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis or have concerns, don’t wait. 

Book your appointment now!