Endometriosis is often considered an invisible illness. Keep reading to discover how to recognize the signs!

What is it?

Endometriosis is when uterine lining tissue grows outside the uterus. This abnormal growth can trigger chronic inflammation, forming scar tissue in the pelvic region. The disease often presents as various types of lesions, sometimes extending beyond the pelvis, and remains invisible to the naked eye. Despite appearing outwardly healthy, individuals with endometriosis may endure severe, persistent pain that significantly impacts their quality of life.

Symptoms?

Common symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• Dysmenorrhea: Severe pain in the lower abdomen or back during menstruation.
• Chronic Pelvic Pain: Persistent discomfort in the ovaries or due to uterine contractions.
• Chronic Fatigue: Ongoing tiredness, often worsened by menstrual pain, affecting daily activities.
• Dyspareunia: Pain during or after sexual intercourse.
• Painful Urination: Discomfort or pain while urinating, particularly during menstruation.
• Intestinal Issues: Bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, especially around menstrual periods.
• Infertility: Difficulty conceiving, often linked to scarring or inflammation caused by the condition.

Detection?

Diagnosing Endometriosis: To identify endometriosis, medical professionals may use diagnostic tools such as pelvic exams, ultrasounds, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or laparoscopy. The choice of diagnostic method often depends on the individual patient and their symptoms. If cysts, scar tissue, or abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus are suspected, the following examinations are commonly performed:

• Pelvic exam
• Ultrasound
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Laparoscopy

Treatment?

While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, several treatments can help manage pain and improve quality of life. Treatment approaches can be either medical or surgical:

• Hormonal Contraceptives: Birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, and hormonal IUDs that release progestin.
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) Agonists and Antagonists: These help regulate hormone levels.
• Progestin Therapy: Medications containing synthetic progesterone.
• Aromatase Inhibitors: Drugs that reduce estrogen production in the body.

Infertility?

Endometriosis is a common factor in infertility, as it can complicate the process of conception. However, there are effective solutions available. In many cases, laparoscopy removes endometrial growths and lesions, which can improve fertility outcomes, especially in mild to moderate cases.

If surgery does not result in pregnancy, in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended. To optimize success rates, IVF protocols are customized based on individual factors, such as ovarian reserve and pain levels.

A Note for students: While fertility might not be a primary concern for you at this stage, it’s important to address symptoms like chronic pelvic pain, heavy periods, or discomfort. Early detection and management can prevent complications and ensure that endometriosis doesn’t interfere with your academic and personal life.