what is endometriosis? 

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis???
I am sure you are asking yourself “What is Endometriosis? “

Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder. It occurs when the tissue,  that forms the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is found outside of the uterus.  These tissues, which are often called lesions or implants, can affect the peritoneum, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, bladder, ureters, intestines, and rectum. This can result in increased inflammation.

What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?
-Painful Periods  – Severe Pelvic Pain – Pain/Bleeding with ovulation – Heavy Bleeding – Pain during/after sex – Bleeding in between periods – Bloating – Constipation – Nausea – Diarrhea – Periods lasting longer than 7 days – Painful urination – Painful Bowel Movements – Pelvic Pain – Leg Pain – Infertility – Headaches – Back Pain – Fatigue – Brain Fog – Neuropathy.

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed? 
The only way to officially diagnosis Endometriosis is through a surgical procedure called laparoscopy.

Are there different stages of Endometriosis? 
According to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine that are different stages of endometriosis. The stages are Stage I, Stage II, Stage III, and Stage IV.  However, these stages do not reflect the level of pain or presence of symptoms for an individual.

Is there a “cure” for Endometriosis?
While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, symptoms can be managed through excision surgery (removal of lesions/implants) which is the gold standard.  There are also treatments that can help assist with pain management and other symptoms.  Lifestyle changes such as nutrition, physical activity, and stress management can also help with symptoms.  

Endometriosis does not only affect women physically but also affects many aspects of their lives.  Such as careers, finances, relationships & overall wellbeing.

There is no one treatment that will work for every individual diagnosed.  Endometriosis and its symptoms should be treated on a case-by-case basis.  Since we are all individuals are treatments should be treated this way as well.

It is important for us Endometriosis Fighters to learn to advocate for ourselves and our treatment.  My own personal journey with endo led me to my passion of becoming an Endometriosis Coach.  I have dedicated my time and support to helping other women who are suffering try to find healthy ways to improve their lives and achieve their goals.  

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30790565/
What is Endometriosis? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment,  Endometriosis Foundation of America – https://www.endofound.org/endometriosis
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Endometriosis – https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Endometriosis
Mayo Clinic – Endometriosis – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656