Endometriosis affects an estimated 190 million women worldwide, presenting a significant health concern that often goes unrecognized. Many women and teenage girls grow up believing that menstrual cramps are a natural part of life, a notion underscored by Dr. Albert Hsu. However, when period pain becomes severe enough to disrupt daily activities, it may be indicative of a condition that requires medical attention.
“Women and teenaged girls are generally taught that menstrual period cramps are supposed to hurt,” – Albert Hsu
Symptoms of endometriosis can vary, but the condition is often marked by debilitating pain and other menstrual symptoms. This pain can lead to missed days at work or school, contributing to stress, anxiety, and fatigue, which are common among those suffering from the condition. Dr. Ahmad highlights the importance of evaluating severe period pain as it could signal endometriosis.
“However, menstrual periods should not cause such terrible cramping pain that you cannot go to work or school.” – Albert Hsu
Progesterone levels drop after pregnancy, potentially leading to the return of endometriosis symptoms. In some cases, surgical interventions can provide relief by reducing symptoms further. Despite these options, many women face a long road to diagnosis. Dr. Ahmad notes that it often takes an average of 7.5 years for women to be officially diagnosed with endometriosis.
“Unfortunately, for many women, it can take years—an average of 7.5 years—to be diagnosed with endometriosis,” – Ahmad
Infertility is another significant concern associated with endometriosis. While not everyone with the condition will experience infertility, it does increase the risk. Endometriosis can subtly influence fertility by affecting egg or embryo quality, fallopian tubes, and the uterine lining, sometimes causing scarring or altering pelvic anatomy.
“This is because endometriosis can cause infertility by affecting the egg or embryo quality, the fallopian tubes, the endometrial (uterine) lining and causing scarring or altering the anatomy of the pelvis,” – Ahmad
Unexplained infertility may often find its cause in undiagnosed endometriosis. Dr. Ahmad suggests that a laparoscopy can sometimes reveal this hidden factor, providing clarity for those with unexplained infertility issues.
“sometimes a laparoscopy can reveal undiagnosed endometriosis as being the cause of infertility.” – Ahmad
Despite the challenges in diagnosing endometriosis, first-line treatments for the associated pain include contraceptives and medications designed to alleviate discomfort. Fatigue, identified as a primary symptom by Dr. Ahmad, further complicates the lives of those affected.
“so the right way to manage endometriosis for you should be discussed with your doctor.” – Ahmad
Doctors emphasize that treatment can commence without surgical confirmation of endometriosis. A personalized approach is crucial, as each individual's journey with the condition differs significantly.
“[Those] things alongside potential imaging and examination will help your doctor determine what the cause of the pain may be,” – Hsu
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