It is commonly found on the ovaries, womb, fallopian tubes and on ligaments supporting the womb, and between the womb and the bowel and other places in the pelvic area. Occasionally it is found in other areas of the body, eg. lung, kidney etc.. It may also grow on surgical scars or form 'chocolate' cysts on the ovaries. Small patches of endometriosis can cause more pain than large growths in some women. The stage of your endometriosis is not linked to the amount of pain.
The disease can also go into remission and disappear for periods of time.
The effects of the disease on a woman's life can be serious and far reaching. Many have had to give up their jobs and restrict their lifestyle and experience difficulty coping with families. Often no real account is taken of their feelings when they are treated for a disease so closely linked with their emotions. Many people disbelieve the level of pain. This can drag you down mentally and physically as your body tries to cope with the pain. It is very important to try to avoid stressful situations as tension affects the ability of the immune system which should function to remove cells growing in the wrong places. Gentle exercise and relaxation techniques aid the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) which also strengthen the immune system.
Theories
Endometriosis is known as the 'Disease of Theories.' No one is sure why this tissue begins to grow in the wrong places. Transportation Theory: Blood and tissue may flow backwards into the abdomen via the fallopian tubes during a period. Mutation Theory: As we develop in the womb some endometrial cells may be misplaced. Auto-Immune Theory: It is thought that there may be a connection between the bodies own immune system and endometriosis. Systemic Theory: This involves the function of the main endocrine glands which may affect the whole body. Genetic Theory: Endometriosis may be an inherited disease as faulty gene patterns are passed on. Environmental: Recent research has highlighted the oestrogen-like properties of organochlorines eg. dioxins in the environment and their possible implication in triggering endometriosis.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms sufferers report are:
- Painful Periods
- Painful Ovulation
- Painful Intercourse
- Infertility Symptoms often reported include:
- Pain at other times.
- Heavy or irregular bleeding.
- Bowel involvement.
- Constipation and/or diarrhoea.
- Swollen abdomen.
- Pain at urination.
- Low energy levels.
- Constant tiredness.
- Insomnia.
- Depression.
- Mood swings.
- P.M.S. Back pain.
- Loss of large blood clots.
- Loss of stale brown blood.
Diagnosis
Endometriosis can be managed in a much more precise fashion if it is diagnosed early and if the level of severity is correctly evaluated. The problem for doctors is that your symptoms may mimic many other illnesses and because of the wide variety of locations for endometriosis, we all exhibit different problems. You need to be frank and open with your doctor about all your symptoms so that he/she can build up a clear picture. Being shy about some intimate details does not give your GP a clear picture. It is important that you are referred to a gynaecologist who is an endometriosis specialist.
The only definite way to diagnose endometriosis is by a minor operation called a laparoscopy. This involes a one or two day stay in hospital only. A small incision is made in the abdomen which is distended with carbon dioxide gas and a tube is inserted which allows the surgeon to look inside and check if endometriosis is the problem.
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