Let's Talk Endometriosis
Endometriosis – a gynaecological condition surrounded by taboos, myths and a lack of awareness, and yet, it is among the most common female health conditions across the globe. It is a condition which occurs when the tissue, similar to the lining of the endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can develop anywhere in the body, but it usually affects the pelvic area.
The female body usually expels this type of tissue during menstruation, but the tissue that forms in endometriosis may remain in the body, which can lead to inflammation. With time, these endometrial deposits can lead to scarring, which can in turn cause chronic pain.
Symptoms: While painful cramping is the most tell-tale sign of endometriosis, some other common symptoms include:
All of these can severely affect a woman’s mental health and can have a debilitating impact on her overall quality of life.
Diagnosis: Since the symptoms of endometriosis resemble that of other conditions, a gynaecologist will only be able to confirm the diagnosis of this condition with a pelvic exam followed by either an ultrasound, MRI, or a laparoscopy (a minimally invasive procedure which provides images of tissue changes).
Treatment: Although there is currently no foolproof cure for endometriosis, various treatment options may help manage the symptoms and help you achieve a better quality of life. Depending on the severity of the condition or an individual’s unique predicament, a gynaecologist can prescribe either hormonal treatment, pain management, surgery, fertility treatment, and even suggest some natural and lifestyle remedies such as exercise, changes to diet, or even counselling.
Can it be prevented?
There is no definitive way of preventing endometriosis, but women can certainly lower their chances of developing the condition – or even learn to better manage the symptoms.
The need for regular check-ups
The scope of gynaecology is much wider than most people assume it to be, and a gynaecologist can provide a continuum of care throughout different phases of a woman’s life; be it from a teenager having just started her first menstrual cycle, to a non-sexually active woman; be it a woman just entering menopause, or one newly married. Visiting a reputed gynaecological and obstetric clinic is not just for addressing specific medical conditions, but regular annual check-ups can help maintain a woman’s overall physical, mental, and sexual well-being.
Reputed as the only Sri Lankan private hospital specialising in woman and child care, Ninewells provides a wide spectrum of treatments for women and girls, and is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and facilities.
To learn more, call 011 204 9999 or visit: https://www.ninewellshospital.lk/our-specialities/gynaecology/