What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic pelvic disease in which the menstrual blood that is supposed to flow out through the vagina, travels up through the fallopian tubes and accumulates around the ovaries.
This results in formation of lumps or cysts on ovaries which can sometimes lead to infertility.
What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?
What are the Tests for Endometriosis?
If your gynaecologist suspects that your symptoms are caused by endometriosis, she may ask for an ultrasound or even a surgery to look into your pelvis.
The surgery is done laperoscopically and provides the most reliable diagnosis.
What is the treatment for Endometriosis?
Treatment is based upon whether the primary complaint is pain or infertility and duration of the disease.
Usually the first line of treatment is hormonal therapy.
It includes oral contraceptive pills, progesterone pills, injections and inserts that can help stop the pain and formation of lumps.
If medical treatment has not been effective, your doctor may advise laparoscopic surgery to remove accumulated blood around the ovaries and pelvis.
When indicated, surgery can provide great relief without compromising fertility.
Can you get pregnant if you have Endometriosis?
You can get pregnant if you have endometriosis. Conceiving naturally is easier in initial stage. However, you may need fertility treatments like IUI if the disorder is more advanced.
Pregnancy may help reverse the pelvic disorder as it stops your menstrual cycle for 9 months and regulates your hormones.
“Don’t ignore extremely painful periods. If you’ve been suffering from chronic pain, get yourself evaluated so that you can begin effective treatment.”
