What is Endometriosis ?
Endometriosis affects about 200 million women worldwide and yet the disease is often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. Endometriosis is a long-term condition which sees tissue similar to the lining of the womb grow in ovaries, fallopian tubes and bowel. It can be painful and may have a devastating impact on a woman’s education, personal and professional relationships, mental health, and quality of life.
What is a chocolate cyst ?
It is a type of ovarian cyst that forms when endometrial tissue grows on the ovaries. Endometriotic cysts are filled with dark, old blood, giving them a characteristic "chocolate" appearance. Endometriotic cysts can vary in size and may cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, especially during menstruation, as well as pain during intercourse or bowel movements. In some cases, endometriotic cysts may not cause noticeable symptoms and are only discovered during a pelvic exam or imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI.
Why do I have Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a complex condition, While the exact cause isn't fully understood, several factors may contribute to its development, Sometimes menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the abdomen instead of leaving the body. These cells then adhere to pelvic organs and grow. Hormonal factors like estrogen, a hormone involved in the menstrual cycle, may promote the growth of endometriosis. Issues with the immune system may prevent the body from recognizing and destroying endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus. Genetics also play a role and Endometriosis can run in families, suggesting a genetic component. If someone in your family has endometriosis, you may be at a higher risk of developing it. It's important to remember that having endometriosis is not your fault, and it's not something you caused. It's a medical condition that can affect anyone with a uterus, and it's essential to work with healthcare professionals to manage symptoms and explore treatment options. If you're struggling with a recent diagnosis or symptoms, seeking support from healthcare providers, support groups, or counselors can be beneficial.
Which women are affected by Endometriosis
It's an unrecognized problem among girls and women and it's something that every young woman who has painful menstruation should be aware of ... it's a condition that is curable if it's caught early. If not, if it's allowed to run on, it can cause infertility, and it can really mess up your life
What are the effects of Endometriosis on body?
Endometriosis can have various effects on your body and overall well-being, both physically and emotionally. Some of the common effects of endometriosis include:
Pain: It often causes pelvic pain, which may vary in intensity and may occur during menstruation, ovulation, sexual intercourse, or bowel movements.
Painful periods: usually you will experience severe menstrual cramps, which can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.
Pain during intercourse:Endometriosis can cause pain during sexual intercourse, known as dyspareunia, which can strain relationships and affect sexual intimacy.
Infertility: Endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility in women as it hampers ovulation, fertilization, and implantation of the embryo.
Bowel symptoms:Endometriosis can affect the bowel, leading to symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain.
Emotional impact:Living with chronic pain and managing the challenges of endometriosis can take a toll on mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, depression, and decreased quality of life as well as adverse impact on relationships.
Impact on work and daily activities:Severe symptoms of endometriosis may interfere with work, school, and daily responsibilities, leading to absenteeism, reduced productivity, and financial strain.
What treatment options are there for endometriosis ?
The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the desire for fertility, and individual preferences. Most of the women present with pain to the doctor.Here are some common treatment options for endometriosis:
Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
Hormonal therapy:Hormonal treatments aim to reduce or eliminate menstrual periods, which can help alleviate symptoms of endometriosis and include birth control pills and other hormonal methods.
Surgery:Surgery can be conservative in which ovaries are preserved and only disease part is removed for example in young women or who wish to conceive. In more severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) with or without removal of the ovaries may be considered.
Which surgery is done for Endometriosis and how ?
These days cutting edge technology is available and minimal invasive surgery which is also called as laparoscopy is used for removal of chocolate cyst or endometriosis. Few tiny holes are made in tummy and through specialized camera and instrument surgery is done. It results in speedy recovery and early return to work.
What is the approximate cost of Endometriosis Surgery ?
Cost depends upon multiple factors like number and size of cyst and any previous surgery if any happened in past. Overall Laparoscopy costs around 1 lac to 1.5 lac with a hospital stay of 3-4 days. Don't hesitate to ask any questions or share any concerns with expert Dr.Kusum Lata