If you experience severe pelvic pain when menstruating, you may have endometriosis. Don’t freak out; you are not alone. But if you’re feeling clueless about the whole thing, keep reading. We’re here to discuss endometriosis, who is at risk, what symptoms look like, and how to treat it.
What Is Endometriosis?
The question of the hour. Endometriosis is a disorder where tissue similar to your uterus lining grows outside the uterus in places it doesn’t belong. This tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each period. The problem is that the blood cannot leave the body and becomes trapped.
Who Is at Risk?
Several factors can put a person at greater risk of developing endometriosis, including:
- Never giving birth
- Starting your period early
- Going through menopause later
- Short menstrual cycles, less than 27 days
- Heavy periods lasting longer than seven days
- Low BMI
- Higher levels of estrogen
- Having any close relatives with endometriosis
- Any medical condition that prevents the passage of blood from the body during menstrual periods
- Reproductive tract disorders
What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?
Several symptoms are associated with endometriosis, but the main sign is intense or mild pain in your back, abdomen, and pelvic region. Other symptoms include:
- Extremely painful menstrual cramps
- Pain during sex
- Heavy bleeding during periods or spotting in between them
- Infertility
- Painful bowel movements
How Does a Doctor Test for Endometriosis?
Doctors will begin by asking about your symptoms and medical history. Your provider may do a pelvic exam and possibly an ultrasound. Depending on your symptoms, physical exam, and ultrasound results, an MRI may be required for further mapping. A laparoscopy and biopsy can also confirm the diagnosis.
Can Endometriosis Be Treated?
In most cases, your treatment plan will focus on pain management and infertility issues, both of which can be treated with medicine or surgery. Hormone therapies such as birth control, gonadotropin-releasing hormone medications, or danazol can also suppress endometriosis. In some cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to treat this condition.
Do you or anyone you know have endometriosis? Share your experience with us in the comments below!