Health is Wealth

Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This abnormal tissue growth most commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the pelvic lining, but it can also spread beyond the pelvic region in more severe cases.

Each month, the endometrial lining inside the uterus thickens, breaks down, and is shed during menstruation. However, in endometriosis, the tissue growing outside the uterus behaves similarly—it thickens and breaks down—but it has no way to exit the body. As a result, it becomes trapped, leading to inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue (adhesions).

The exact cause of endometriosis remains unclear, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. These include retrograde menstruation (when menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity), immune system disorders, hormonal imbalances, and genetic predisposition. Women with a close relative who has endometriosis are more likely to develop the condition themselves.

Common symptoms of endometriosis include:

Severe menstrual cramps Chronic pelvic pain Pain during or after sexual intercourse Pain with bowel movements or urination (especially during menstruation) Heavy menstrual bleeding Infertility

The severity of symptoms does not always correlate with the extent of the disease; some women with advanced endometriosis may experience minimal symptoms, while others with mild forms can suffer intensely.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, pelvic examinations, imaging tests (such as ultrasound or MRI), and often laparoscopy—a minor surgical procedure that allows direct visualization of endometrial lesions.

While there is no cure for endometriosis, various treatments can help manage symptoms. These include pain relief medications (such as NSAIDs), hormonal therapies (including birth control pills, progestins, or GnRH agonists), and surgical options to remove endometrial growths. For women facing infertility, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF may be considered.

Endometriosis can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, both physically and emotionally. Early diagnosis, effective symptom management, and greater public awareness are key to improving outcomes for those affected.