Endometriosis – pain and fertility problems
Endometriosis is a disorder affecting women of child-bearing age. An estimated 5 to 15% of all women suffer from it. Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of fertility problems. The gynaecologist will suspect endometriosis when there is severe pain in the lower abdomen during or after menstruation. Ultrasound and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) show the endometriosis sites in the abdomen. In some cases, a laparoscopy is required in order to make a precise diagnosis.
What is endometriosis?
The lining of the womb is called the endometrium. It builds up during each menstrual cycle. At the end of the cycle, it comes away again and is expelled from the body as a menstrual period. With endometriosis, cells similar to this lining start to grow outside of the uterus. These sites in the abdomen go through the same menstrual cycle. However, the bleeding at the end of the cycle cannot escape from the abdomen. The blood stays inside the body, and the typical symptoms of endometriosis develop.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Endometriosis leads to pain around menstruation, during sexual intercourse or generally in the lower abdomen. Problems with bowel movements can also occur. The women affected are often late in presenting to the doctor. They believe they have menstrual pain that is severe but still normal. The blood loss and pain make them tired and exhausted. Endometriosis is the cause in 50% of women with fertility problems. Endometriosis can block the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg.
What treatments can help with endometriosis?
Treating endometriosis is not always easy. The tissue at these endometrial sites reacts to the female hormones. Hormone therapy can therefore help those affected. If the patient wants to get pregnant, the endometrial sites in the abdomen are removed. This is done through a laparoscopy. In most cases fertility increases after the operation and pain is reduced.