Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, grows outside the uterine cavity. This tissue acts as it would within the uterus-it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds during each menstrual cycle but has no way to exit the body. As a result, it causes severe pain, cramps, nausea, and other debilitating symptoms during menstruation.

If left untreated, endometriosis can lead to infertility. However, with early diagnosis and proper management, reproductive health outcomes can be improved, significantly enhancing the quality of life for those affected.

Symptoms and Causes of Endometriosis

Common symptoms of endometriosis include:

  • Painful Menstruation: Intense pelvic pain and cramping, often starting before the menstrual period and continuing for several days.
  • Excessive Bleeding: Heavy menstrual bleeding or spotting between periods.
  • Painful Bowel Movements: Discomfort during bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation.
  • Infertility: Difficulty conceiving can often be linked to endometriosis.
  • Other Symptoms: Fatigue, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, and nausea, which may intensify during menstruation.

Several factors contribute to the causes of endometriosis, including:

  • Retrograde Menstruation: It occurs when menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows backwards through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity rather than exiting the body as usual.
  • Transformed Peritoneal Cells: Hormones or immune factors may cause peritoneal cells to change into endometrial-like cells.
  • Embryonic Cell Changes: Hormonal changes during puberty can prompt embryonic cells to change into endometrial-like tissue implants.
  • Surgical Scar Complication: After surgeries such as a hysterectomy or C-section, endometrial cells may attach to the surgical incision site, causing scarring issues.
endometriosis surgery

Risk Factors for Endometriosis

Here are some factors that might increase the risk of developing endometriosis:

  • A family history of endometriosis
  • Menstrual cycles that last shorter than 27 days
  • Heavy menstrual periods lasting more than eight days
  • Never having given birth

Endometriosis Diagnosis & Treatment Offered

Diagnosing endometriosis typically involves a combination of the following methods:

  • Pelvic Exam: A healthcare provider performs a manual examination to check for abnormalities in the pelvic region, such as cysts or scars.
  • Ultrasounds: Using high-frequency sound waves, this imaging technique helps identify cysts linked to endometriosis.
  • MRI Scans: This type of scan provides detailed images of organs and tissues, aiding in the detection of endometrial implants.
  • Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin viewing instrument to examine pelvic organs and may include the removal of endometrial tissue.

Endometriosis treatment varies based on the severity of the condition, with an emphasis on symptom relief and overall health improvement. Common treatment options include:

  • Pain Management Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to relieve menstrual cramps and pain.
  • Hormone Therapy: Treatment options like hormonal contraceptives, progestin therapy, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists work to slow the growth of endometrial tissue.
  • Fertility Treatment: For those experiencing infertility due to endometriosis, treatments such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) can assist.

The Process of Endometriosis Treatment at KHPL

At Dr. Kamaraj Hospital and Aakash Fertility Centre, our structured treatment plan for endometriosis includes:

Consultation and Treatment

Begin with a consultation to discuss your symptoms and history, followed by a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.

Monitoring Progress

As you undergo treatment, we closely monitor your progress through regular check-ups and adjust the plan as necessary.

Follow-Up Care

Our commitment doesn't end with treatment; we provide ongoing support through regular appointments to ensure your long-term well-being.

Why Choose Us?

At Dr. Kamaraj Hospital and Aakash Fertility Centre, we prioritise offering the best reproductive and fertility care. Our team of highly qualified professionals and state-of-the-art facilities ensure that you receive personalised, effective treatment in a compassionate and patient-focused environment.

Best Sexologist in Chennai Dr. Kamaraj

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For expert care and comprehensive treatment of endometriosis and related symptoms.

FAQ

How is endometriosis treated?
Treatment options include pain management, hormone therapy to suppress tissue growth, and possibly surgery to remove endometrial implants. The treatment approach depends on the severity of symptoms and fertility considerations.

The cost will vary depending on the treatment method chosen and your specific needs. It is recommended that you schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider for a more accurate estimate.

Medications may include pain relievers and hormone therapies, such as hormonal contraceptives, progestin therapy, or gonadotropin-releasing hormone therapies to help manage tissue growth.
Currently, there is no proven method for preventing endometriosis. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and minimise complications.

Meet Our Doctor

Best Sexologist in Chennai Dr. T Kamaraj

Dr. T. Kamaraj

Sexologist & Male Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and gynaecology
Infertility Specialist Dr. J S Jeyarani Kamaraj

Dr. J. S. Jeyarani Kamaraj

Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and genecology, including an MD and a Diploma in Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGO)