Endometriosis
Endometriosis
The month of March is also Endometriosis month and the charity website Endometriosis UK has lots of information and resources on running health promotional activities including setting up of a Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme which is a way for employers confirm their commitment to developing a work environment and culture that enable employees with endometriosis to thrive at work.
Symptoms of endometriosis
The symptoms of endometriosis can vary. Some women are badly affected, while others might not have any noticeable symptoms. Some common symptoms of endometriosis are:- Pain in the lower tummy or back which is usually worse during a women's period.
- Painful periods that can stop a woman from her normal activities.
- Pain during or after sex.
- Pain when urinating or defecating during a period.
- Feeling sick, constipation, diarrhoea, or blood in urine or faeces or during the period.
- Difficulty getting pregnant.
When to see a GP
A woman should be advised to see a GP if they have symptoms of endometriosis, especially if they're having a big impact on their life. It may help them to write down their symptoms before seeing a doctor. Endometriosis UK has a useful Pain and symptoms diary which they can use. It can be difficult to diagnose endometriosis because the symptoms can vary considerably, and many other conditions can cause similar symptoms. A GP will ask about their symptoms and may ask to examine their tummy and vagina. They may recommend treatments if they think the woman has endometriosis. If these do not help, they might refer them to gynaecology for some further tests, such as an ultrasound scan, MRI or laparoscopy which is where a surgeon passes a thin tube through a small cut in the tummy so they can see any patches of endometriosis tissue. This is the only way to be certain a woman has endometriosis.Treatments for endometriosis
There's currently no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments that can help ease the symptoms. Treatments include:- Painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol.
- Hormone medicines and contraceptives for example the combined pill, contraceptive patches, implants and hormone releasing coils.
- Surgery to cut away patches of endometriosis tissue.
- Surgery to remove part or all the organs affected by endometriosis, such as surgery to remove part of the colon, appendix, or womb.
Further problems caused by endometriosis
One of the main complications of endometriosis is difficulty getting pregnant or not being able to get pregnant at all (infertility). Surgery to remove endometriosis tissue can help improve chances of getting pregnant, although there's no guarantee that a woman will be able to get pregnant after treatment. Surgery for endometriosis can also sometimes cause further problems, such as infections, bleeding or damage to affected organs. The NHS website Endometriosis Complications has lots of information on the complications that can be caused by Endometriosis.Living with endometriosis
Endometriosis can be a difficult condition to deal with, both physically and emotionally. As well as support from health professionals patients may find it helpful to contact a support group, such as Endometriosis UK for information and advice. In addition to detailed information about endometriosis, Endometriosis UK has a list of support groups a helpline on on Tel: 0808 808 2227 and even a webchat function.
Causes of endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is not known.Several theories have been suggested, including:- Genetics – the condition tends to run in families and affects people of certain ethnic groups more than others.
- A problem with the immune system, the body's natural defence against illness and infection.
- Endometrium cells spreading through the body in the bloodstream or lymphatic system, a series of tubes and glands that form part of the immune system.