March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Despite its prevalence, endometriosis is still shrouded in shame and secrecy. It’s time we break the silence and start talking about this painful and debilitating condition that can drastically affect quality of life
Why raising awareness is crucial for better diagnosis, treatment, and support.
Introduction to Endometriosis:
Endometriosis is a painful and often debilitating condition that affects women of childbearing age. It occurs when the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of the uterus. This can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and fertility problems.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition that has no cure, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms:
Let’s Learn & Spread Awareness
Causes of Endometriosis:
There is no one cause of endometriosis
- Hormonal imbalances:
o (Higher Levels of Estrogen Hormones)
- Family history:
- Immune system problems:
o Autoimmune conditions
(Hashimoto’s disease or Crohn’s disease)
- Inflammatory bowel disease:
o (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
Symptoms of Endometriosis:
Usually starts around the time of your period and may get worse over time
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Painful urination or bowel movements
- Excessive bleeding during your period
- Infertility
Diagnosing Endometriosis:
Endometriosis is a painful condition that affects millions of women around the world.
This Endometriosis Awareness Month, let’s start talking about this condition and how it can be effectively diagnosed
- diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history
- Imaging tests or perform a laparoscopy
o (A surgical procedure used to examine the inside of the abdomen)
- A Biopsy (Tissue Sample)
- Pain relief medication
- Hormone Therapy & Surgery
How Can We Raise Awareness of Endometriosis?
Let’s start a conversation and break down the barriers to understanding Endometriosis
There are many ways we can raise awareness of endometriosis. Here are just a few ideas
- Share Your Story:
o If you suffer from endometriosis, you are not alone (Consult Gynecologist)
- Educate yourself and others about the condition.
- Support organizations are working to improve awareness and support for those with endometriosis.
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. It is one of the most common gynecologic conditions. Despite its prevalence, endometriosis is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Organizations Dedicated to Helping Women with Endometriosis:
Etc…
The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown. However, there are several theories about how endometriosis may develop. One theory suggests that during menstruation, some of the endometrial tissue is transported back through the Fallopian tubes into the pelvis where it implants on pelvic structures. Another theory suggests that endometrial cells may be present at birth and migrate to various locations throughout the body during childhood or adolescence.
Let’s take this month as an opportunity to spread knowledge on endometriosis and show our solidarity with all who are impacted by it.
(Reference: Dr. Pooja Bansal, Gynecologist in Navi Mumbai, India)