Endometriosis is a fairly common condition among women, and can occur at any point in life. It currently has no cure, but can be managed and treated through the use of contraceptives and surgery.
Because the symptoms of endometriosis are so similar to other conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and ovarian cancer, it can go undetected for years, slowly causing more and more damage. This is why it is so important to recognize its signs and symptoms and have it treated properly.
In women with endometriosis, the tissue that normally grows inside the uterus grows outside the uterus and attaches to other organs within the body. This tissue can swell, bleed, and scar. When a woman is on her period, the body’s attempts to force this extra tissue out can lead to extreme pain and discomfort.
Sometimes this tissue can be detected with the use of an ultrasound, but if any of it is located between two organs, it may not show up at all. For this reason, the only way to truly diagnose endometriosis is through a type of surgery called a laparoscopy, which involves the use of cameras inserted into the lower abdomen by way of two or three small incisions.
Although many women experience painful periods, the true mark of endometriosis is pain during sex and other normal activities. Vaginal penetration can put abnormal force on the affected areas, causing a feeling of pressure, tenderness, or soreness. These are more readily felt in positions of deep penetration, and gradually increase over time.
Endometriosis often begins at menarche, or when a young woman has her very first period. One of the biggest warning signs is when periods slowly become heavier and more painful each continuing month.
Many gynecologists suppress endometriosis through the use of hormonal contraceptives, most often a birth control pill containing estrogen and progestin. This can help to regulate periods and reduce cramps by preventing ovulation from occurring. A great number of women also find comfort in pills that eliminate periods altogether, such as Seasonale or Lybrel.
The long-term effects of endometriosis vary from case to case depending on where tissue growth occurs, but they can include infertility, organ failure, and deep scarring. These can be prevented through the use of a laparoscopy, as during this procedure, any tissue found is removed by a doctor.
If you notice pain during intercourse deep within your belly or experience extraordinarily painful cramps, please don’t hesitate to talk to your primary care physician or gynecologist. Managing endometriosis is the key to protecting yourself against its effects.
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Shaina Gaul is a feminist and freelance writer living in Iowa. View more of her writing at http://www.toasterbyte.com.