Endometriosis is a condition where tissue and cells that are similar to the lining of the uterus grow in other areas of the body. This often occurs within the pelvic and abdominal organs - ovaries, tubes, bladder and bowels. This can cause scarring, lesions, adhesions and cysts. March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. A time to shine a spot light on a painful, often debilitating condition that affects at least 10% of women world-wide - that’s about 176 million. Awareness is important so we can gain an understanding of endometriosis, while supporting those around us who live with this.
Here’s what we need to know:
◦ Endometriosis is considered one of the 20 most painful medical conditions in
the world
◦ On average it takes 8 years to get a diagnosis. Diagnosis options include pelvic exams, ultrasounds, with the most definitive option being laparoscopy surgery
◦ Endometriosis has now been found in every organ within the body, including
the brain
◦ Symptoms can include; debilitating pain, very painful/heavy periods, pain during bladder or bowel motions, lower back pain, nausea, fainting, pain during sex, fatigue, trouble conceiving
◦ Teenagers are not too young to have endometriosis
◦ Symptoms and the amount of endometriosis present in the body can vary person to person
◦ Unfortunately there is currently no cure, only ways to manage symptoms. Some options include; excision surgery, pelvic physiotherapy, pain medications, acupuncture, naturopathy/diet and osteopathy
Links for support: