Endometriosis–what a pain!

Endometriosis is a long term condition but it can be treated with medication or treatment

Endometriosis affects about 5 million women in the United States. If you experience pelvic pain, especially during your menstrual period, and have had problems getting pregnant, you could be affected. Don't worry; it can be treated with medications, hormones and surgery.

Many women are treated for endometriosis. It often occurs in women in their twenties and thirties, but can occur at any time in women who menstruate.

What is endometriosis?

The lining of your uterus is called the "endometrium." Sometimes, this type of tissue can develop in other parts of your body:

• Ovaries
• Fallopian tubes
• Outside surface of the uterus
• Bladder and ureters
• Rectum

The lining, or "endometrial tissue," breaks down and bleeds during the menstrual cycle, as it does in your uterus. This can be painful and, in some cases, can cause infertility.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptom is pelvic pain–similar to menstrual cramps. You may also experience pain when you have sex, or when you urinate and have a bowel movement.

Should I make a doctor's appointment?

Yes. To find out the extent of the endometriosis, your doctor may need to do a laparoscopy. This procedure involves a thin, telescope device being inserted into your pelvic area.

Is there any treatment?

Endometriosis can be treated with medication and surgery depending on your symptoms and whether you want to have children. Here are some of the options:

• Nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) These drugs can be used to relieve the pain of endometriosis. However, they don't treat any other symptoms.
• Hormones Hormone treatment can help relieve the pain, and slow down the growth of endometrial tissue. The hormones include birth control pills, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), progestin and danazol. Although hormone treatment can control the endometriosis, there are side effects, such as mood changes, weight gain and deepening of the voice.
• Surgery The endometrial tissue can be removed by surgical procedures, relieving the pain and symptoms. However, this doesn't always cure the endometriosis–half of the women who have surgery find that their symptoms come back within 1-1 ½ years. Many patients are treated with both surgery and medication for the most effective results.
• Hysterectomy This may be the best option if your endometriosis doesn't respond to other forms of treatment. It is a major surgical procedure to remove your uterus. Afterwards, you no longer have menstrual periods, which can cure the endometriosis. However, it does mean you can t get pregnant.

Finally…

Endometriosis is a long-term medical condition. Although it can be treated with medication and surgery, you may have symptoms until menopause. Your doctor can help you find the right treatment. If you're having problems getting pregnant, you may wish to consider fertility treatment.