March the 14th: World Endometriosis Day - what is it and how can we deal with it? - Reproclinic
Endometriosis

March the 14th: World Endometriosis Day – what is it and how can we deal with it?

By Reproclinic Editorial Committee

Endometriosis is still considered a great unknown in the field of reproductive medicine. It is an incurable disease which, in its most acute phase, limits the fertility of patients in a worrying way. It is estimated that one in ten women in the world suffers from it. In Spain alone, more than two million women endure it every day.

The disease manifests itself when we find the endometrium outside the endometrial cavity and its symptoms are characterised by intense pain during menstruation and pelvic pain which can even become chronic in the worst cases. 

Its causes remain unknown and there is no specific treatment; the only solution is surgery in the most serious cases, although there is no guarantee that it will not recur later. 

One of the major problems we often face in our consultations is the lack of knowledge of symptoms on the part of women, who often confuse the pain caused by endometriosis with the acute pain of menstrual symptoms.

At Reproclinic, we always insist on the importance of making all the necessary exams and putting ourselves in the hands of good specialists in any non-standard situation. In case of doubt, it is advisable to carry out all the diagnostic tests to be able to treat the disease as quickly as possible or, in the best of cases, exclude it and investigate the origin of the pain.

 

Can I be a mother despite my endometriosis? 

One of the main consequences of endometriosis is infertility since, in advanced stages, it can affect the ovaries. About 50% of women with endometriosis will not be able to become pregnant naturally.

In this sense, fertility treatments, especially preservation ones, are a great ally in helping to achieve pregnancy.

Thanks to oocyte vitrification, preferably before the age of 35, women can choose the best time to become mothers without their eggs losing their quality, which is why, once the disease has been diagnosed, this option is a guarantee for the future.

Either because of the age itself or because of the disease, in cases where the quality of the oocytes is not ideal, or when the ovarian reserve has been affected, In Vitro Fertilization allows the selection of oocytes that present better conditions for later fertilization in the laboratory.

 

The psychological factor, key to dealing with the disease

Diseases such as endometriosis can leave emotional scars. A situation that recurs periodically with the above-mentioned symptoms and which, moreover, has no cure, can make daily life very difficult for patients who suffer from it.

In addition to a correct medical diagnosis, psychological support is essential in these cases. Patients need to feel supported and, above all, understood.