Endometriosis is a complex and often painful medical condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of its natural location.
It can be challenging to identify, as symptoms vary between individuals and may mimic those of other conditions. While not all women who experience endometriosis suffer from severe pain or discomfort, it can lead to infertility in some cases.
Understanding the signs and symptoms associated with this condition is essential to diagnosing and managing it properly. Let’s start!
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a health issue of concern for female patients in Boise and across the country.
It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins growing outside of it—on organs such as ovaries or fallopian tubes, or even on nearby structures like ligaments or bowels.
As this misplaced endometrial tissue responds to hormonal fluctuations, those affected by endometriosis may experience pain from cramps, scarring resulting from adhesions, heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility, and other physical discomforts.
Endometriosis can cause general pelvic pain before and after menstruation. However, not all cases are alike nor present with identical signs and symptoms. Health care for women in Boise can give you thorough evaluation.
Causes Of Endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown. However, there are several theories that suggest potential causes. One theory proposes that endometrial tissue travels through the fallopian tubes or lymphatic system and implants in other areas of the body outside the uterus.
This process may occur either before birth or during menstruation as cells flow backwards through these pathways. Alternatively, surgical procedures such as cesarean sections could also contribute to this phenomenon by introducing new tissues into an area where they would not normally exist.
Hormones also play a role in endometriosis since estrogen stimulates cell growth while progesterone works to stop it from growing further. An imbalance between these two hormones can therefore result in excessive proliferation of endometrial cells which may eventually form lesions on surrounding organs and tissues.
Symptoms Of Endometriosis
#1 Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain is a common symptom of endometriosis, and can range from mild to severe. Pain may occur during menstruation or sexual intercourse, as well as in the abdomen, lower back, thighs and pelvic area throughout the month.
Symptoms often begin with puberty and worsen over time; they may be intermittent or continuous depending on severity. Endometriosis-associated pelvic pain has been described as sharp, stabbing pains that increase in intensity prior to menses and then subside after bleeding begins. In some cases, it is so severe that women are unable to go about their daily activities.
#2 Abnormal Bleeding
Abnormal bleeding is one of the most common signs and symptoms of endometriosis.
In addition to abnormal periods, many women with endometriosis experience pain from other sources such as ovulation and intercourse due to inflammation caused by lesions in the pelvic area.
While it can be difficult to distinguish between regular and abnormal period pain, some women may find that their typical discomfort intensifies significantly during menstruation when they have endometriosis.
#3 Infertility
Studies have shown that women with mild or moderate cases can still face fertility issues due to the disease. Endometriosis has been linked to ovulation disorders and disruption in the levels of hormones important for conception such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
Women may experience irregular menstrual cycles which make it difficult to time intercourse correctly, resulting in reduced chances of pregnancy. Impaired tubal transport, obstruction of fallopian tubes caused by adhesions from inflammation related to endometriosis, and impaired sperm transport due to thickened cervical mucus or structural changes in the uterus are also possible causes of infertility associated with endometriosis.
#4 Digestive Problems
Women suffering from endometriosis may experience a range of digestive problems that can be quite severe.
From cramps and sharp pain to bloating, gas and nausea, these issues can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life.
To understand the complexities of this condition more clearly, here is a three things that might happen related to digestive organs:
- Intense abdominal discomfort – often accompanied by stabbing pains or cramps;
- Excessive gastrointestinal distress including bloating, flatulence and frequent trips to the bathroom;
- Nausea – both chronic and sporadic episodes. It is important to note that while not every woman will suffer all these issues, they are typically experienced during flare ups which occur regularly for most people with Endometriosis. With proper treatment however, it is possible to manage these health concerns effectively.
#5 Urinary Problems
Urinary problems are common among those with endometriosis, and can range from mild to severe. Women with the condition may suffer from frequent urination or difficulty in emptying their bladder due to pelvic pain.
These symptoms often overlap with other conditions such as interstitial cystitis, overactive bladder syndrome, and urinary tract infections. Here is a list of 3 primary issues associated with endometriosis:
- Dysuria – burning or painful sensation when passing urine
- Urge incontinence- an urgent need to pass urine more frequently than usual;
- Hesitancy – delayed start of urination even after feeling the urge to void.
#6 Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain related to endometriosis may worsen during menstruation or sexual intercourse. The intensity of symptoms varies from person-to-person; some women experience mild aches while others suffer from debilitating cramps that disrupt their daily lives. In addition, the duration of these pains can range from short periods (a few hours) to longer ones (several days). Medical treatment may be necessary if symptoms become persistent and severe enough to interfere with normal activities such as work or exercise.
#7 Fatigue
The fatigue associated with endometriosis can affect energy levels in varying degrees from mild lethargy to extreme weariness which impedes physical activity and cognitive function alike. This type of fatigue is not relieved by rest or sleep but rather exacerbated, leading some women to find themselves stuck in this cycle of debilitation day after day. The intensity of these feelings has been compared to that of lupus, chemotherapy, or fibromyalgia patients who also experience chronic fatigue syndrome-like symptoms.
Coping Strategies For Endometriosis
There are several different approaches to coping with endometriosis, including lifestyle changes and alternative therapies.
A balanced diet rich in plant-based foods and low in processed ones helps provide vital nutrients to reduce inflammation associated with the disorder. Exercise has also been shown to help alleviate symptoms of pain, especially when combined with relaxation techniques such as yoga or tai chi.
In addition, women affected by endometriosis may find comfort in support groups or therapy sessions designed specifically for them, which can make all the difference between feeling alone and finding solace amongst fellow sufferers.
As awareness around endometriosis continues to grow over time so do the number of resources available; allowing individuals greater access than ever before towards taking charge of their own wellbeing journey amidst this difficult reality. With careful consideration and planning, women can develop strategies that work best for them in order to manage their day-to-day lives moving forward.
When To See A Health Care Provider
If a woman experiences any form of chronic pelvic pain which persists throughout their cycle (or even beyond), they should consider consulting their primary care providers as soon as possible in order to rule out endometriosis. In addition to physical examination and imaging scans such as ultrasound or MRI scan, providers may also request blood tests to check hormone levels along with other relevant medical information related to the patient’s health history.
When to Act if You Think You Have Endometriosis
The earlier endometriosis is diagnosed by a professional, the better chance one has at managing its associated symptoms through medications or lifestyle changes; more invasive treatments such as surgery may also be necessary depending on the severity of each case. Consulting a qualified health care provider allows them to explore potential treatment options that can help reduce the impact this condition has on one’s life.
