Knowing about Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that affects about 10% of women in varying degrees.

Endometriosis refers to a condition whereby cells which are normally found in the lining of the womb (endometrial cells) are also found outside the womb, for example on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel and bladder.

 These cells respond to the female hormones and bleed every month as you do when you have your period. However this blood cannot escape from the body and so it causes pain. The pain typically begins a few days before the period and usually lasts the whole of the period. It is different to normal period pain which is usually not as severe, and doesn't last as long. Patients may also experience pain deep inside during sex which may last for several hours afterward. Some women may also experience bleeding at unexpected times during their cycle. Endometriosis may also make it more difficult to become pregnant. This is because endometriosis causes scar tissue to develop which can affect the ovary and fallopian tubes.

Symptoms of endometriosis normally start between ages 25-40, and tend to run in families. The birth control pill protects against endometriosis. It is believed that endometriosis occurs when cells from the lining of the womb spill through the fallopian tubes during your period. These cells then latch on to surrounding organs and continue to grow. When endometriosis occurs on the ovaries, a “chocolate cyst” can develop. This is a collection of blood which resembles chocolate syrup, hence the name. A chocolate cyst can be detected on ultrasound. 

Your doctor may suspect that you have endometriosis from your symptoms but the diagnosis is made by laparoscopy. This is a small operation where a camera is inserted below your belly button, so that the endometriosis deposits can be seen. In some cases the endometriosis may be destroyed by heat. This can relieve a patients symptoms and may also help her to become pregnant. Surgery is not the only treatment however. Patients with mild symptoms may only need pain killers to help with their period pains. Hormonal treatments which decrease the amount of the female hormone oestrogen will help to “starve” the endometriotic tissue so that they shrink and eventually disappear. You and your gynecologist will be able to determine the treatment that is best for you.

Till next week remember to take care of yourselves first so you can take care of those you love.

Dr. Reiaz Mohammed
MB.BS (UWI), MRCOG (UK)
Specialist Obstetrician & Gynecologist
Gulf View Medical Centre.