Why Understanding Endometriosis Matters: Facts, Figures, and the Urgent Need for Awareness

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month! This makes it the perfect time to bring much-needed focus to a condition that affects so many. It might surprise you to learn that endometriosis impacts almost 10% of women of reproductive age and is the underlying cause for a staggering 70% of women experiencing chronic pelvic pain. What's even more concerning is that the average delay in diagnosis is a frustrating 6-7 years. This delay often stems from a lack of understanding about the illness and the subjective nature of its symptoms. Adding on to this, research suggests that Asian women are also slightly more susceptible to be diagnosed with endometriosis. 

That's why it's so important to discuss and understand endometriosis better, ultimately improving the well-being of women worldwide. In fact, according to Endometriosis UK, 54% of women aren’t even aware of what endometriosis is. So let’s explore together.

What is Endometriosis? Unpacking the Definition and What It Means for Your Body

To understand endometriosis - let us first break down the word in two ‘endometri-’ and ‘-osis’. Endometri refers to the endometrium, which is the innermost lining of the uterus, and ‘-osis’ is a Latin prefix used to denote a ‘disease’ or a ‘condition’ (for instance, when one says acidosis - it is the condition of having excess acid). So if we put these two words together, it literally means the disease of the endometrium. The presence of endometrial tissue, lesions, or bits outside of the uterus is referred to as endometriosis. Reminder: The endometrium is the layer of the uterus that thickens and changes throughout your monthly menstrual cycle and is shed during menstruation.

Endometriosis Symptoms: Recognizing the Signs Your Body Might Be Sending

An individual who has endometriosis will have endometrial tissue outside their uterus. This can be anywhere from the ovary, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, and even cases where lesions are found on the lungs! 

The signs and symptoms can vary but often include:

• Severe dysmenorrhea (painful periods): period pain so intense it disrupts your daily life and doesn’t respond well to over-the-counter medication.

• Heavy periods: bleeding that’s excessively heavy, requiring frequent changes of pads or tampons

• Severe and chronic pelvic pain: persistent pain in the pelvic area that can happen even when you don’t have your period.

• Pain during sex or urination (or even bowel movements)

• Other negative symptoms associated with the location of the vagrant endometrial tissue.

One may also experience:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Bloating

• Aches and fevers

Sadly, about one-third of women with endometriosis also experience infertility due to the physical characteristics and damage to the reproductive system. Sometimes, their endometriosis only gets diagnosed during their journey of trying to conceive. 

When to See a Doctor: Recognizing Endometriosis Symptoms and Seeking Help

It is important to understand that many individuals do not get help on time because of the lack of concrete signs and symptoms. Many individuals think the severe pain and bleeding are just a factor of menstruation and let it slide, and some even depend on painkillers and struggle or suffer through the pain.

• If your period pain is significantly impacting your daily life, it's important to seek medical advice.

• Early diagnosis can help prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life.

• Keep a detailed record of your menstrual cycles, pain levels, and any other symptoms you experience. This information will be invaluable for your healthcare provider.

• Don't hesitate to advocate for your health concerns. If you feel your doctor isn't taking your pain seriously, consider seeking a second opinion from a gynecologist who specializes in endometriosis.

What Causes Endometriosis? 

The cause of endometriosis isn’t entirely understood but, one running theory is called ‘Retrograde menstruation’ which says that during menstruation some endometrial tissue flows backward into the fallopian tubes and attaches itself to other parts of the body, implanting itself there and behaving like normal endometrial tissue going through cyclical changes while the individual goes through their menstrual cycle. There is no staunch proof for this theory, and other contributing factors include hormonal imbalances, stress, immune system dysfunction, genetic predisposition and other such causes as a part of the menagerie that can cause endometriosis. 

Managing Endometriosis: Exploring Your Treatment and Relief Options

Navigating endometriosis can feel overwhelming, and it's important to remember that treatment is a very personal journey. What works for one person may not work for another. From painkillers to surgery, and even hormonal implants and pills can all be a part of the treatment plan - depending on the doctor’s advice and your personal choice. But the very first important step to take is to recognize the illness and bring it up to your personal healthcare provider so they can do the right diagnostic investigations and ensure it is managed early on to prevent long-term damage and disability. 

For pain management, there might be pain medications, heat therapy, gentle exercise, stress management techniques and in come cases dietary changes that can help manage the pain. Hormonal therapies like birth control pills of IUDs could be options to discuss. In some cases, surgical interventions might be considered. Some also find relief through acupuncture, pelvic floor therapy and mindfulness and stress reduction techniques.

Conclusion: Empowering Yourself with Knowledge

Endometriosis is a complex condition that affects millions of women worldwide. By increasing awareness and understanding, we can recognize the signs and symptoms, seek timely medical help, and ultimately improve our well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources and support available. If you suspect you might have endometriosis, please reach out to your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management. Do you have experiences with endometriosis you'd like to share? Or do you have any questions? Leave a comment below! And if you found this blog helpful, please share it with your friends and family.