Welcome to our endometriosis website, where we'll explore this condition in a way that's easy to understand and relatable to you. Imagine having a friend who's been through the challenges of endometriosis and is here to guide you.
Endometriosis, in simple terms, is a common and incredibly painful condition that affects about 1 in 10 women. It can strike anyone from their teenage years to menopause, causing a range of symptoms that impact various parts of the body. While it used to be seen primarily as a reproductive issue, we now understand that it's a whole-body condition, bringing with it a host of associated symptoms.
Think of endometriosis as a mystery waiting to be unraveled. On this website, we aim to provide answers to the questions you may have about endometriosis, making this journey a bit less daunting for you. So, let's explore together and find the support and knowledge you need.
Let's talk about the typical signs and symptoms that people with endometriosis might experience. Endometriosis symptoms can vary from person to person depending on where it's found in the body. But some common signs include:
Severe Period Pain : For those with deep endometriosis, the pain during your period can be excruciating and can last longer than usual. It might even hurt before and after your period.
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: When endometriosis affects the uterus (called adenomyosis), you might have extra heavy periods.
Fertility Issues: Sometimes, people discover they have endometriosis when they're trying to have a baby and facing infertility problems.
Painful Sex: Endometriosis can make sex painful, which can affect your relationships and quality of life.
Gastrointestinal Troubles: If endometriosis affects your intestines, especially the lower parts, you might have problems like constipation, diarrhea, and painful bowel movements.
These symptoms can vary depending on which organs are affected by endometriosis. If any of these sound familiar, it's a good idea to talk to an endometriosis expert who can help you figure out what's going on.
A cure for endometriosis has NOT yet been found.
Exact cause of endometriosis NOT known, it is believed that genetics and hormonal factors, as well as immunological factors, may be involved.
Teenagers are NOT too young to have endometriosis.
It's important to note that a hysterectomy does NOT provide a cure for endometriosis
Unfortunately, endometriosis cannot be prevented.
Endometriosis does NOT always lead to infertility; it varies from person to person.
Experiencing severe period pain is NOT considered normal, and it could be a symptom of endometriosis.
Becoming pregnant does NOT serve as a cure for endometriosis.
The level of pain you experience is NOT necessarily related to the extent of the disease.
Endometriosis is NOT a sexually transmitted infection (STI); you cannot contract it from someone else.
When it comes to selecting the best surgeon for endometriosis, making an informed decision is paramount to your health and well-being. Here are important points to check when choosing an endometriosis surgeon:
Specialization: Does the doctor specialize in the treatment of endometriosis? Ensure that they have a dedicated focus on this condition.
Interest and Focus: Ask about their dedication to endometriosis. Is it their primary area of expertise, or do they primarily practice obstetrics? Look for specialists who prioritize both minimally invasive surgery and endometriosis treatment. (It's worth noting that many gynecologists also practice obstetrics. Keep in mind that there is no universally recognized definition of an "endometriosis specialist.")
Certification: Check for certifications like MIGS (Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery) or FMIGS (Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery). These certifications indicate expertise in advanced surgical techniques.
Case Volume: Ask how many endometriosis cases they treat annually. A high case volume is essential, especially if their practice is dedicated to endometriosis.
Surgical Team: Inquire about the surgical team the surgeon works with. Find out who will handle complex cases involving organs like the bowel, bladder, ureters, or diaphragm if needed.
Obstetrics vs. Surgery: Consider whether the surgeon also practices obstetrics. The most experienced excision surgeons no longer practice obstetrics. Catching babies is wonderful work, but doctors who do that can’t dedicate enough time in the OR to excel in the excision of endometriosis. Highly experienced excision surgeons often focus exclusively on surgery to excel in treating endometriosis.
Collaboration: Does the doctor work collaboratively with other specialists who have experience in caring for endometriosis patients, such as GI doctors, infertility specialists, pelvic floor physiotherapists, and pain management experts?
Treatment Options: Ensure that the surgeon discusses all available treatment and management options, both surgical and medical. Choose the approach that aligns with your comfort level and lifestyle.
Accreditation: Inquire if the surgeon participates in any accreditation program for Minimally invasive Gynecology Surgery or Endometriosis. Such programs ensure they meet minimum standards, including the number of cases treated and ongoing review of their work.
Details about the Surgery: Ask for clear and detailed information about the surgical procedure, potential risks, complications associated with endometriosis surgery and the expected outcomes.
Remember that selecting an endometriosis surgeon is a significant decision. Take your time, ask these questions, and don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you have doubts or concerns. Your choice of surgeon plays a pivotal role in your journey with endometriosis, so make it an informed one.
Endometriosis' exact cause remains unclear, with theories proposing retrograde menstruation as one likely contributor, where menstrual blood with endometrial cells flows backward into the pelvis. Genetic factors are also implicated, as endometriosis often runs in families, and hormones, particularly estrogen, can promote its growth. Immune system dysfunction and environmental influences may further play roles in the condition's development, suggesting a multifactorial origin. Further research is needed to fully comprehend endometriosis' underlying causes for improved treatment and prevention strategies.
Certainly, endometriosis has the potential to recur following surgical excision. Several factors influence this, including the disease's stage, the completeness of surgical excision, and the patient's age. Even after a thorough removal of visible lesions during surgery, many individuals may be prescribed hormonal medications to suppress any remaining microscopic lesions and delay the chances of recurrence.