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What is endometriosis?

by website of Dr. Behnaz Sharafuddin, specialist in gynecology, childbirth and infertility | Mehr 1, 2018

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to what lines the uterus It covers other parts of the body, especially the pelvic organs, grows, reproduces and functions. Endometriosis affects women of any age, but it is more common in the ages of 30-50. It is a long-term disease and can have a profound and significant effect on your life, but there are treatments that can help. One of its types is rectovaginal endometriosis, which is associated with anal pain during periods.

Symptoms Endometriosis What is it?

Its symptoms can be diverse. Some women are severely affected, while others may have no significant symptoms.

What are the main symptoms of endometriosis?

Pain in the lower abdomen or back or pelvic pain. It is often aggravated during periods.
Pain during periods to the extent that it prevents normal daily activities.
Pain during or after sex
Pain during defecation or urination during periods
Feeling sick, constipation, diarrhea or the presence of blood in feces during periods
Difficulties in getting pregnant

You may have heavy bleeding (heavy period). You may use a lot of pads or tampons.

Endometriosis can be very affecting for many women and sometimes lead to depression.

When to see a doctor for endometriosis?

It is difficult to diagnose endometriosis. This is because its symptoms are very variable and other diseases can also cause similar symptoms.

Your doctor will ask you about the symptoms and examine you and offer you treatment. If normal treatments are not effective, ultrasound, MRI or laparoscopy will be suggested to you.

What is laparoscopy? (Laparoscopy)

It is a procedure in which the surgeon passes a narrow rod through a small hole around the navel to see and examine the inside of the abdomen and pelvis through it. This is the only sure way to diagnose endometriosis.

What is endometriosis pain like?

Pelvic pain may start with your period and last for several days, it can be sharp and vague, it is often relieved with painkillers.

Some women say: it is so severe that they feel that their pelvic organs are being pulled out, sometimes the pain is throbbing and gnawing.

The uterus and ovaries are located near the waist and lower abdomen and may also affect the lower back (backache).

Many women have pain during sex or up to two days after, which may be vague or shooting, some describe it as pain in the pelvic area, (Painful sex).

Painful bowel movements

Depending on the area affected by endometriosis, it may be painful to go to the bathroom slow, and if it is severe, it may cause bleeding and constipation.

Effect of endometriosis on infertility

Endometriosis may make it difficult to conceive.

If the tissue inside the uterus grows outside it, it creates (scars or adhesions and frequent wounds), which can affect the fallopian tubes, which prevents the meeting of the sperm with the egg, thus preventing fertility. It prevents the egg and its implantation in the uterus.

Surgery can remove the tissues that are extra formed and make it easier to get pregnant, otherwise you may need help from assisted reproductive methods such as IVF to get pregnant.