The Endometriosis Society of India estimates that around 25 million Indian women suffer from endometriosis and that this number is increasing over time, according to a report in India Today. According to 2018 statistics, one in ten women suffers from this condition during their reproductive stage. Endometriosis is chronic and has no permanent cure. Yet, certain endometriosis treatment options can ease the discomfort and help you feel better.
What is Endometriosis?
It is a gynaecological condition, in which the endometrium starts growing on the vagina, rectum, ovaries or the pelvic lining. Endometrial tissues are made up of connective tissues, blood cells and glands. In time, these tissues start to break down and thicken,and also react to the menstrual hormones and bleed. The major symptoms of endometriosis are infertility, pain during urination & defecation, heavy menstrual bleeding, discomfort during sexual intercourse and recurring pelvic pain.
Diagnosis of Endometriosis
At Apollo Fertility, the following diagnostic procedures are used for detecting endometriosis.
Ultrasound
Transvaginal ultrasound gives a clear picture of the reproductive organs and helps doctors identify cysts responsible for endometriosis.
Laparoscopy
This procedure is performed by making a tiny cut on the navel and inserting a laparoscope. This tool is a viewing instrument, through which doctors check for endometrial tissues if any.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI helps to get detailed images of the organs and tissues of the female body. This procedure is performed to guide the surgeon in checking for the size and site of the endometrial implants.
Treatment Options
Pain medication is the primary endometriosis treatment. If it is not effective, surgery could be considered, depending on the severity of the signs & symptoms. Surgery will also depend uponwhether you plan to conceive or not.
Hormone Treatment
Gonadotropin-releasing hormones (Gn-RH), hormonal contraceptives (including birth control pills and vaginal rings), progestin therapy and aromatase inhibitors have a great impact on the formation of endometrial tissues. These are mainly prescribed to control the hormones that produce endometrial tissues and lower the estrogen level in the body.
Fertility Treatment
Endometriosis can often lead to pregnancy failures. Fertility treatments are recommended by doctors to enhance egg production by stimulating the ovaries. IVF (in vitro fertilization) is a possible treatment of women suffering from endometriosis. The endometrial ‘receptivity’ or ‘non receptivity’ is detected by the doctor before embryo implantation. Endometriosis can cause an imbalance in reproductive functions, leading to ovulatory dysfunction and defective implantation, and these can be improved with IVF.
Surgery
One effective endometriosis treatment is performing surgery to remove endometrial tissues. The operation preserves the uterus and ovaries are preserved, increasing the chances of conception. The pain is also minimized through surgery.
Although there is no permanent cure for the disease, heating pads and medicines can help reduce the pain from time to time.
