Surprisingly little is known about endometriosis, even though the condition affects the sexual wellness and wellbeing of around 10 to 15 percent of all reproductive-age women. This condition is non-cancerous but can be very debilitating and painful.
Around 5.5 million women in Canada and the US alone are diagnosed with the disease every year. It occurs when cells from the uterine lining (the endometrium) start to grow outside of the uterus, adhering to other internal structures such as the fallopian tubes, bowel, ovaries or bladder. The Endometrial tissue can also move outwith the pelvic cavity and adhere to more distant parts of the body.
Nobody is sure what causes the condition but it can vary hugely in severity. Some women experience pain that is so severe that they are unable to lead a normal life, whilst others have no symptoms at all or very mild pain. Other symptoms can include diarrhoea and painful bowel movements, painful intercourse and heavy menstrual bleeding.
The most common way to diagnose the problem is with a laparoscope, and this may also be used during the surgical treatment of the condition. The laparoscopy gives the surgeon a chance to look at abnormalities that may be occurring in the pelvic region by inserting a very small telescope through the tummy, usually through the navel. This is the best way of providing a diagnosis, although endometric tissue can still be present even if it is not seen with the laparoscope.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can temporarily stop the condition in its tracks. The absence of menstruation means that the symptoms that are usually associated with the monthly cycle are often absent.
Endometriosis cannot be cured, but it can be treated with medicine (such as hormonal contraceptives) or through surgical intervention.
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