Endometriosis is a painful medical condition that happens when the tissue that normally lines your uterus ends up growing in areas outside your uterus. These growths of tissue are also called implants, and they can form and grow on your ovaries, your fallopian tubes, the outer wall of your uterus, and even on your bladder and intestines.
Although many people — including women — haven’t heard of the condition, endometriosis is surprisingly common, affecting more than 6 million women of childbearing age in the United States alone.
Researchers don’t know what causes endometriosis, but they do know that the disease is more common among women with certain risk factors, including:
It’s also more common among women who’ve never given birth.
While the specific cause of endometriosis is unknown, its symptoms are well-recognized. Learning to recognize those symptoms can help you get treatment as soon as possible.
At his practice in Newburgh, Indiana, which serves the Evansville area, Paul W. Morrison, M.D., offers patient-centered endometriosis care with the aim of relieving discomfort and improving overall wellness. In recognition of Endometriosis Awareness Month, Dr. Morrison gives a brief overview of five symptoms you should know about.
Menstrual cycles depend on changes in your hormone levels — specifically, levels of estrogen and progesterone. As you move through your menstrual cycle, the uterine lining changes, first in preparation for possible pregnancy, and then as it prepares to slough off during your period.
Since endometrial implants are made of uterine tissue, they react the same way to hormone changes. Unfortunately, since this tissue is outside of the uterus, it has nowhere to go. As a result, many women with endometriosis experience significant abdominal pain before, during, or right after their periods.
If you have endometriosis, your periods may be especially heavy or last longer than normal. Normal periods usually last up to seven days. However, your menstrual cycle may be shorter. Menstrual cycles usually last 28 days or so.
Endometrial growths can cause pain during sexual activity and afterward. Penetration and related movements during intercourse can stretch or irritate endometrial implants, particularly if they’re located near the vagina.
If implants form on your bladder, bowel, or rectum, you might find urination and bowel movements to be especially painful. Once again, these symptoms can be worse during certain parts of your menstrual cycle.
If endometrial implants grow on or around the fallopian tubes or ovaries, they can interfere with the descent of the egg, preventing you from conceiving. Implants around your vagina or uterus can also make it more difficult to become pregnant.
Although endometriosis can’t be cured, it can be treated. Many women respond well to therapies that use medicines to relieve pain, modulate hormones, or both.
In more severe cases, or if you’re trying to conceive, Dr. Morrison may recommend a minimally invasive procedure to remove implants and other tissues affected by the implants. In rare cases, he may recommend hysterectomy or removal of the ovaries if symptoms are severe, especially for women who don’t plan to become pregnant.
If you have endometriosis or if you’re experiencing the symptoms of the disease, regular treatment can help you feel better. To learn more, call 812-490-5200 or book an appointment online with the practice of Paul W. Morrison, M.D., today.
