12 Jun Endometriosis: Everything you need to know

By Reproclinic Editorial Committee

Endometriosis is one of the main causes of infertility, which affects many women (1 in every 10) yet despite this, there is still much ignorance about it.

What should you know about endometriosis?

This disease consists of the appearance and growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, especially in the ovaries, but also behind the uterus, in the bladder or in the intestine. This tissue growth causes severe menstrual pain, and may even include chronic pelvic pain.

The problem is that most women who suffer from it can go years without it being diagnosed. For this reason, from Reproclinic we insist on the importance of carrying out annual gynecological examinations and placing ourselves in the hands of specialists in any situation that goes beyond normality.

The ignorance of the symptoms by women and the lack of specialists in this specific field of gynecology contribute to the late diagnosis of the disease. Unfortunately, endometriosis has no cure. But a timely diagnosis, the consequent treatment and, of course, the monitoring of the condition, can help improve the day to day of women who suffer from it. Regarding the possibility of being mothers, the treatments of assisted reproduction and specifically the vitrification of ovocytes, supposes a great advantage.

Frequently asked questions about endometriosis

DOES ENDOMETRIOSIS CAUSE A LOT OF PAIN?

It is true that in most cases it is like that. Mainly during menstruation, but it can also be asymptomatic. It will depend, mainly, on the location where the injuries are residing by. Other symptoms can be a very deep bleeding during the period, pain in sexual intercourse and / or urination / defecation.

IS ENDOMETRIOSIS RELATED TO CANCER?

This relation has not been proven, although it could be associated with ovarian endometrioma, which are small cysts that can be benign or malignant.

CAN ENDOMETRIOSIS CAUSE INFERTILITY?

Indeed, it is one of the main causes of infertility. Endometriosis can evolve and affect the fallopian tubes or the ovaries. However, not all women with endometriosis are infertile, more than 50% will be able to become pregnant naturally.

CAN ENDOMETRIOSIS BE CURED?

It has no cure, reason why it is so essential to detect it as soon as possible in order to start treating it and avoid a negative evolution.

CAN ENDOMETRIOSIS IMPROVE AFTER PREGNANCY?

Although it does not happen in all cases, it is true that most women notice an improvement in the disease.

IS IT DIFFICULT TO DIAGNOSE?

Today there exist some determinant tests for detecting this disease, such as magnetic resonances. However, the main problem happens when the woman does not get into the hands of a specialist as soon as possible, since ignorance causes many to be resigned and diagnosed after many years of suffering from it.