Endometriosis: Risk Factors, Warning Signs, Diagnostic Tools, Intervention Strategies
Endometriosis is a painful condition that can negatively impact your quality of life. It is also one of the leading causes of irregular periods and infertility in most women. However, with early diagnosis, endometriosis is successfully treatable.
Hoboken endometriosis treatment is performed by reproductive experts specializing in diagnosing and treating endometriosis to improve symptoms and fertility.
An insight into endometriosis
Endometriosis is a medical disorder characterized by an abnormal growth of the inner lining of your uterus (endometrium) on other body parts. The cells grow and bleed which causes inflammation and leads to scarring. This can cause severe pain, and discomfort, negatively impacting your daily life.
Risk factors for endometriosis
Certain risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing endometriosis, which includes:
- Family history
- Defects in your uterus and ovaries
- Immune system disorders
- Abnormal menstrual period frequency and duration
- Abdominal surgery like a caesarian or hysterectomy
- Females above 35 years of age
Warning signs of endometriosis
The primary symptom of endometriosis considered a red flag is pelvic pain which is worse than the pain and cramps experienced during your periods.
Other symptoms include:
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain during bowel movements or urination, likely during your menstrual period
- Excessive menstrual bleeding or heavy bleeding between periods
- Infertility due to blocked fallopian tubes
- Extreme fatigue
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal bloating
Diagnostic tools and techniques
Early diagnosis of endometriosis is important to provide treatment for relief. This is possible through:
- Evaluation of your symptoms
- Reviewing medical history to rule out other pathologies
- Pelvic exam
- Ultrasound scan
- MRI
- Laparoscopy is a diagnostic and treatment procedure using a special camera to look inside your body
- Biopsy to remove tissue samples in order to confirm the diagnosis
Intervention strategies
Treatment for endometriosis depends on your age, severity of symptoms, and your future pregnancy plans.
If you do not wish to get pregnant
Medications
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- OTC painkillers
Hormonal options for suppressing endometriosis
- Oral contraceptives
- Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) medications
- Danazol
If you wish to get pregnant
Surgical options
- Laparoscopy: Aids in diagnosing the condition and also excising the damaged tissues
- Robot-assisted surgery: Minimally invasive advanced procedure for improved visualization and dexterity
If the endometriosis is very severe and cannot be managed by other treatment modalities
- Hysterectomy: This involves surgical removal of the whole uterus
Conclusion
Endometriosis can cause chronic pain, heavy bleeding, and infertility. However, with early diagnosis, your healthcare professional can provide several treatment options to improve your quality of life and manage endometriosis over the long haul.