10 things you should know about endometriosis

Did you know it takes many years for someone to be diagnosed with endometriosis – a gynaecological condition surrounded by taboos, myths and a lack of awareness. We aim to speed up the diagnosis and treatment of people with endometriosis for women with symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful periods, and infertility. What do women need to know about this common condition?

• Endometriosis is the common gynaecological condition. It affects between 2 and 10 women out of 100 women, usually during their reproductive years.
• It occurs when tissue similar to the inner lining of the womb (endometrium) is found elsewhere in the body, usually in the pelvis around the womb, ovaries and fallopian tubes. These cells respond to the hormones produced by the ovaries each month and so also bleed when you have your period. There is, however, no way for this blood to leave the body.
• This condition leads to pain and inflammation and, in some women, damage to the pelvic organs through the formation of scar tissue and cysts.
• Symptoms can include period pain that isn’t relieved by painkillers, irregular or heavy periods, pain during and after sex, pain or discomfort when going to the toilet. Some women have no symptoms at all.
• Endometriosis can affect fertility. In minor cases of endometriosis, there is evidence that removing or destroying endometriotic tissue during surgery can improve a women’s chances of having a successful pregnancy, either naturally or following fertility treatment.
• Endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose because every woman experiences the condition differently, and because symptoms can be similar to other illnesses.
• There are treatments which can help to ease the symptoms including anti-inflammatory painkillers, and hormone medicines and contraceptives, including the combined pill, the contraceptive patch and the intrauterine hormonal system. For some women, surgery is needed to treat or remove the endometriotic tissue especially when scar tissue and/or cysts are present
• Help is on hand. First, speak to your gynaecologist.