In honor of Endometriosis Awareness Month this March, we thought now would be an excellent time to discuss one of the most common and frustrating reproductive health conditions that women face. Endometriosis occurs when the uterine lining, or endometrium, extends beyond the uterus. This can lead to a chronic inflammatory reaction in other areas of the female reproductive system and beyond. Below are some helpful facts about endometriosis:
- Experts estimate that endometriosis occurs in about 1 in 10 women between the ages of 15-49.
- It is most commonly diagnosed in women who are in their 30s and 40s.
- Scar tissue or inflammation from endometriosis is most often detected in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or outer areas of the uterus, bladder, ureters, intestines, and rectum.
- In some rare cases, it has been detected in the diaphragm or in the lungs.
- Although this varies from woman to woman, common endometriosis symptoms include irregular bleeding, pain during menstrual periods, ovulation, and sex, chronic pelvic discomfort, fatigue, and infertility.
- Nearly 4 in every 10 women who experience infertility have endometriosis. This is often due to inflammation that can damage or interfere with the sperm or egg during passage through the fallopian tubes and uterus.
- Although there is no cure for or way to prevent endometriosis, there are several things women can do to reduce their risk. This includes getting regular daily exercise and avoiding drinking large amounts of alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
- Endometriosis can be treated with certain medications including hormonal birth control pills or GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonists.
- In some cases, we may perform surgery to remove the endometriosis without removing any reproductive organs. We may recommend an ablation or a hysterectomy for women with more severe or persistent symptoms.
We hope our readers found these facts informative and helpful. We believe strongly in the power of spreading awareness of endometriosis and other reproductive health concerns in order to help as many women as possible find the relief they deserve. For more information on endometriosis or to request an appointment with one of our reproductive healthcare experts today, please contact Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett today. And follow us on Facebook for more tips and updates. Follow our full-service medical spa, MadEmEl Medical Aesthetics on Instagram for details on their cosmetic specials and so much more.
