The physical and mental symptoms of endometriosis can significantly impact your quality of life.
In this article, learn more about endometriosis.
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Where Does Endometriosis Occur?
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By definition, endometriosis occurs anywhere in the body that is outside the uterus.
Though this theory has been disproved, the myth persists and can inhibit proper diagnosis.
Urinary tract endometriosisoccurs in approximately 1% of cases and is more common in the bladder than the ureters.
Endometriosis within the pelvic cavity is more common than extra-pelvic endometriosis (endometriosis outside the pelvis).
What Causes Endometriosis?
Thecause of endometriosisis currently unknown, but there are two primary theories: metaplasia and retrograde menstruation.
Metaplasia
Metaplasiais when a mature cell turns into another jot down of cell.
Theories based on metaplasia are the current leader among endometriosis experts.
The coelomic theory of endometriosis suggests that specialized cells in the body’s inner cavity turn into endometrial lesions.
Retrograde Menstruation
This theory of endometriosis was proposed in 1927 by gynecologist John Sampson.
Family history increases the risk for endometriosis and the severity of symptoms and is linked to earlier symptom onset.
Researchers and medical professionals don’t unanimously agree on one theory.
Endometriosis Symptoms
Endometriosis can feel different to each person.
Pain is the most commonendometriosis symptom.
Over 60% of people with endometriosis have chronic pelvic pain.
Discuss your symptoms and note when they occur or show signs of any possible triggers.
Also, mention if you have any family history of endometriosis or unexplained infertility.
Patterns in Endometriosis Diagnosis Delays
People with endometriosis often experience diagnosis delays.
Current estimates indicate it can take seven to nine years from symptom onset to reach a correct diagnosis.
Whom Should You See if You Suspect You Have Endometriosis?
If you suspect that you have endometriosis, see a surgeon specializing in the condition.
As in many fields of medicine, there are subspecialists in obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN).
Patients should consider seeking care from subspecialists.
Additional tests may include:
Keep in mind that none of those tests can diagnose endometriosis.
Negative results (no signs of endometriosis found) also do not rule out endometriosis.
Endometriosis Treatment
The best available treatment for endometriosis isexcision surgery, which is considered the gold standard.
During this surgery, endometriosis lesions are cut out and removed.
Excision surgery is complex and should be performed by endometriosis specialists.
Ablation vs. Excision Surgery for Endometriosis
There are generally two methods of endometriosis surgery:excisionor ablation.
Endometriosis specialists prefer excision but may use ablation when excision is not possible.
Is Endometriosis Curable?
No, endometriosis is not curable.
Some people with endometriosis have experienced lesion recurrence even after excision surgery.
Excision surgery is the gold standard treatment for endometriosis.
Endometriosis can lead to infertility, poor quality of life, and other complications when left untreated.
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