Contents
Endometriosis
– a common (frequency more than 10%) disease of the female reproductive system. With this disease, the tissue of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) begins to grow and penetrate into the underlying structures (myometrium) and neighboring organs (fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder). Less common is damage to distant parts of the body (lungs, liver, etc.). The initial manifestations of endometriosis are most often characterized by painful, heavy and prolonged menstruation.
The two main forms of endometriosis are:
- genital Affects the internal genital organs: uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, vagina.
- extragenital. Foci of endometriosis occur in the pelvic organs, abdominal cavity, lungs, intestines, skin, etc.
Causes of endometriosis development:
- hormonal imbalances,
- menstruation,
- genetic predisposition,
- immune system disorders,
- endometrial metaplasia,
- iron deficiency,
- surgical intervention on the pelvic organs (cauterization of erosion, cesarean section, termination of pregnancy),
- inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs.
Diagnosis of endometriosis
Diagnosis of endometriosis begins with collecting anamnesis (patient complaints, history of her disease). The next step is a gynecological examination. These are only the initial stages in diagnosing endometriosis. To clarify the diagnosis, ultrasound, MRI diagnostics (magnetic resonance imaging), and laboratory tests are performed.
If you are concerned:
- pain in the lower abdomen and lower back
- menstrual irregularities
- infertility
- painful intercourse
- chronic pelvic pain
you need to consult an experienced gynecologist and undergo examination of the female reproductive system.
Endometriosis treatment
Today there are three ways to treat endometriosis:
- medicinal. The treatment method is aimed at maximizing the preservation of reproductive organs and functions. It is usually recommended for women planning to have more children.
- surgical. The treatment method involves removing the affected tissue with possible preservation of the functions of the female reproductive system or complete removal of the affected organs.
- complex therapy (surgical and medicinal). In complex therapy, both methods (medicinal and surgical) are used.
Dear ladies, pay attention to the high percentage of successful treatment of this serious disease with early diagnosis!
Do not neglect annual preventive examinations with a gynecologist.