If you are experiencing painful periods, you should seek assistance as soon as possible. You should begin by discussing the matter with your attending physician.
What Is Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition characterized by uterine pain, inflammation, and fibrosis. This occurs in a tissue called endometrium, which is typically found only within the uterus. Endometrium that grows outside the uterus is known as ectopic endometrium or implants.
Endometriosis can occur when tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus or endometrial cells, grows outside of your outgrows on other organs in your pelvis such as ovaries or fallopian tubes; on other structures within your pelvis such as ligaments and blood vessels; or even outside of your body -for example, on an ovary.
How Do I Know If I Have Endometriosis
The following are examples of endometriosis symptoms:
• Dysmenorrhea or pelvic pain during or between menstrual periods, which may be worse on one side depending on where the abnormal tissue has formed. Periods can also cause bowel and intercourse pain.
• Cramps before or during menstruation.
• Heavy menstrual bleeding; clots greater than dime-size because they contain many days’ blood flow; Intermenstrual bleeding, even if you’re not pregnant, can be a sign of endometriosis and PCOS, which typically coexist in women under 35 who haven’t gone through menopause.
The Treatment Options For Endometriosis
Endometriosis treatments vary. Surgery is often used to remove scar tissue and improve quality of life. Medication can alleviate endometriosis, cramps, and other menstrual problems. Dr. Rachel Oliver suggests nutrition and exercise reduce endometriosis symptoms and prevent them from worsening.
Acupuncture, for example, has been shown to help some women with menstrual discomfort or other monthly symptoms, such as bloating and excessive bleeding during menstruation, or menorrhagia. Other treatments include hormone therapy or oral contraceptives, which can limit estrogen production in your body, allowing less estrogen to become trapped inside lesions on your pelvic organs and cause pain or discomfort throughout your menstrual cycle.
Surgery
Surgery is the best endometriosis treatment, Dr. Rachel Oliver but it’s usually a last resort. Surgery depends on the severity of your disease and whether you have other health issues that may hinder recovery. When pain is severe or frequent, surgery is recommended. Infertility and intestinal blockage can be treated with surgery.
