Endometriosis is a health condition that occurs when the endometrium (which is the lining of the uterus for those not familiar with medical jargon) grows outside its ‘domain’ such as along the pelvis, on the cervix, the fallopian tubes or ovaries.
When this tissue breaks down, just like the uteral lining does during menses, it has nowhere to go. This leads to heavy periods, severe cramps, cysts and in severe cases, infertility.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
Thousands of women in Australia have endometriosis but the true number of cases is difficult to determine because not all women exhibit symptoms. The most common symptom is cramping during menstruation which has a tendency to get worse over time. Although most women complain of pain during their period, those with endometriosis often say that the pain is much worse. Other symptoms include painful urination and bowel movements, gastrointestinal upsets, fatigue during menstruation and pain while having sex.
Relieving the Pain
Currently there’s no cure for this condition but there are a number of ways through which one can relieve the symptoms and in so doing improve quality of life. The choice of treatment greatly depends on the woman’s personal situation and can involve pain medication, hormonal therapy or surgery.
This option is aimed at relieving pain and cramps during menstruation. It’s recommended for mild cases of endometriosis. Some painkillers especially NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are very effective in relieving period pain. These pain-relievers include diclofenac, acetylsalicylic acid (abbreviated as ASA – it’s a compound found in drugs like Aspirin) and ibuprofen. They can be brought ‘over the counter’ in any pharmacy although some are only available on prescription especially if they are to be taken in large doses.
NSAIDS are usually well tolerated though they can cause side effects like nausea, headaches and stomach upsets. Consult a doctor if you intend to use pain relievers for a long time as ASA’s have been known to prevent blood coagulation (clotting). There is another option for pain relieve; the use of opioids. These work like NSAIDS with the only difference being opioids ”influence” the perception of pain in the brain just like the body’s natural pain killers. Opioids can only be used under a prescription or supervision of a doctor.
Hormone-based therapy is used to suppress production of hormones particularly estrogen and progesterone and in so doing prevent ovulation. This option is not viable for women who would like to conceive. Common treatments here include the use of the ‘pill’, progestins and agonists (GnRH analogs).
Use some pills
The ‘pill’ – some contraceptive pills are used to suppress a woman’s hormonal cycle for some time. However, this is only possible if the pills are taken for a consistent and continuous period. The ‘extended cycle regimen’ as it is referred should only be done under the supervision of a gynecologist.
1. GnRH analogues
GnRH is the acronym for gonad releasing hormone (also referred to as agonists). They work just like the pill but have stronger side-effects. Since they significantly reduce production of hormones, agonists tend to cause problems often related to menopause such as vaginal dryness, mood swings and hot flashes
2. Progestins
These are just drugs containing the progestin (a hormone). There is even a coil with progestin that can be inserted into the womb. This treatment option best works in combination with surgery (which we will talk about next).
Endometriosis can also be surgically treated either through laparoscopy or laparotomy. Both involve removal of endometrial implants which is of course, under anesthesia. This tissue is then destroyed with heat produced by an electric or laser current and running through a probe. Don’t let the terminologies dropped here bog your mind. Your gynecologist should be in a better position to explain this to you in simpler terms. Surgery will help alleviate pain caused by endometriosis. In fact, there is even a rumor (scrap that), there is a research that suggests removal of endometrial implants improves fertility (wink wink).
Complementary medicine and relaxation treatments like herbal products and acupuncture among others can also be effective in relieving pain. Notable mentions here include; homeopathy and acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), Yoga and tai chi, chiropractic treatment and home remedies like heat treatment can be soothing.
If you become concerned about your or anyone else’s health please seek immediate medical attention or go to our health hotlines and website post for further resources https://www.stayathomemum.com.au/my-kids/babies/important-hotlines-websites/
SAHM takes no responsibility for any illness, injury or death caused by misuse of this information. All information provided is correct at time of publication.
