Endometriosis and pregnancy

Endometriosis occurs when the endometrial lining of the uterus attaches to other organs outside the uterus. During menstruation, the lining of the endometrium separates from the uterus, but the lining attached to the outside of the uterus cannot leave the body.

This lining continues to deteriorate during ovulation and menstruation and can break down and bleed, rupture, or form painful scar tissue.

What are the reasons?

The causes of endometriosis are unknown. Some experts have suggested several possibilities, but nothing has been conclusively proven. One possible reason is that during menstruation, menstrual tissue travels up the fallopian tubes, enters the abdominal cavity, and implants.

Most doctors believe that all women experience some sort of reserve at some point, but women who have immune problems develop endometriosis.

Another theory is that it is a genetic birth defect in which endometrial cells grow outside the uterus during fetal development. Once this female grows up and starts menstruating, these misplaced cells become lesions or implants that cause pain and discomfort.

There is also a genetic theory that doctors from London are studying all over the world. This theory is based on strong evidence that endometriosis is inherited. Early research suggests that women with a family history of endometriosis are more likely to have daughters with the condition.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms may include one or more of the following symptoms:

Chronic or intermittent pelvic pain
Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
Infertility
Painful sexual intercourse
Painful bowel movements
Fatigue
Heavy or irregular bleeding
Pain during ovulation
Gastrointestinal problems (constipation, diarrhea, bloating)
Painful urination
Lower back pain

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Endometriosis can only be diagnosed surgically. Ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography do not allow the diagnosis of endometriosis. The doctor usually reviews the history of symptoms and decides if surgery is needed to make a diagnosis. Laparoscopy or laparotomy is used to diagnose endometriosis.

Is there a cure?

There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments available to help women manage their symptoms.

How to treat endometriosis?

Endometriosis can be treated in one or more of four ways:

Painkillers: Some over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen, can relieve discomfort for women with endometriosis. Prescription medications may be needed if the pain does not respond to over-the-counter medications.
Hormonal drug therapy: Hormonal drugs are given to try and stop ovulation for as long as possible to prevent the implants or lesions from worsening. These may include birth control pills, progesterone preparations, and GnRH agonists.
Most of these treatments can only be given for a limited time, and the side effects can cause problems for some women. Hormone therapy is used to prevent symptoms and is often more effective after surgery.
Surgery: Conservative surgery is used for diagnosis, removal of growths, pain relief and increased chances of pregnancy. Conservative surgery is usually performed by laparoscopy or laparotomy. In some cases, more radical surgery, such as a hysterectomy, is recommended to treat endometriosis.
Alternative or natural therapies: Some women have found various types of natural remedies to treat endometriosis. Remedies such as vitamins and herbs, dietary changes, acupuncture, myofascial relaxation, and Chinese medicine have proven to be helpful in treating endometriosis.

Talk to a registered dietitian, acupuncturist, physical therapist, or homeopathic doctor about alternative ways to treat endometriosis symptoms.

Frequently asked questions about endometriosis

Does pregnancy cure endometriosis?

There is no cure, but for some women, pregnancy may reduce symptoms and effects.

If I get a hysterectomy, will endometriosis go away?

A hysterectomy is not a cure for endometriosis, but may be of value to some women. Discuss all your options with your doctor before deciding to have a hysterectomy.

How can I prevent endometriosis?

There is currently no known prevention. Researchers have not found a compelling reason why women get endometriosis, so they have no way to prevent it.

Where are the foci of endometriosis located?

The most common sites for implantation of endometriosis are the ovaries, the outer wall of the uterus, the fallopian tubes, the pelvic cavity, and the genital ligaments. Lesions can also be found on the bladder, intestines, cervix, vagina, and in scars from abdominal surgery.

I have all the symptoms of endometriosis, but my doctor told me that I do not have them ... maybe he is wrong or is it all in my head?

Yes, your doctor may be wrong, and no, it's not in your head! Endometriosis is one of the most underestimated diseases of women's health. This does not mean that your doctor is a bad doctor, but whatever the disease, a specialist is best able to establish a definitive diagnosis.

The average time it takes a woman to make an accurate diagnosis from the onset of symptoms is about 10 years. This is due to the lack of research and information reaching doctors, and the fact that endometriosis can mimic many other diseases and disorders. It is best to contact a specialist and let him confirm the possibility of endometriosis.

If I've been diagnosed with endometriosis, does that mean I can't get pregnant?

Endometriosis can lead to infertility in many women, but with active treatment, the chance of pregnancy increases. Discuss treatment options with your doctor to decide which course of treatment is best to increase your chances of pregnancy.