Endometriosis refers to a number of gynecological diseases. In its midst, a woman has an overgrowth of the endometrium (the cells lining the inner surface of the uterus) beyond acceptable limits.
The body of the uterus begins to grow in the most atypical places: the peritoneum, bladder, intestines, ovaries, causing perifocal inflammation and painful menstruation. Endometriosis most often affects women of childbearing age (from 25-40 years).
Endometriosis - Causes
The etiology of perhaps the most mysterious disease in gynecology is still not fully understood. In most cases, the cause cannot be established at all. However, experts offer a list of factors that can play a significant role in the development of endometriosis.
- the genetic predisposition is not in doubt, since even family forms of the disease are found;
- during menstruation, endometrial cells together with blood can be transported outside the uterus, where they begin to grow;
- It was noted that 90% of women with endometriosis have hormonal disorders: an unreasonable release of luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones is observed, which leads to a violation of the androgenic function of the adrenal cortex;
- decrease in immunity - normally the immune system should destroy the cells that have gone beyond the endometrial cells, but weakened defenses are not able to correctly perform their functions.
Other causes of the development of the disease include: anemia, liver disease, previous gynecological surgery, abortion, wearing an IUD (intrauterine device).
Endometriosis - Symptoms
The asymptomatic course of the disease is a rarity. Mostly signs are present and appear during the menstrual period. Women complain of unbearable pain, which deprives them of their working capacity, there is a heaviness, a feeling of a lump in the lower abdomen; pain often radiates to the back and buttocks. If the bladder is damaged, painful urination with impurities of the blood is possible.
Growths with endometriosis, although they bring a lot of inconvenience, but have a benign nature. A formidable complication of the disease is the development of infertility. Therefore, it is necessary to recognize the pathology in time in order to avoid trouble.
Endometriosis - diagnosis
Effective methods for diagnosing pathology have been developed. These include:
- colposcopy - gynecological examination of the female genital organs using a colposcope (lighting device);
- spiral computed tomography - determines the localization, nature and relationship of growths with neighboring organs;
- ultrasound;
- magnetic resonance imaging - can recognize the deepest lesions;
- laparoscopy - puncture of the abdominal with the aim of introducing a laparoscope (an apparatus that determines the exact number, size and age of foci of endometriosis).
- blood test for the presence of tumor markers.
A timely diagnosis gives a high guarantee for a complete cure and the ability to avoid unpleasant consequences.
Endometriosis - treatment and prevention
There are two ways to treat endometriosis - medication and surgery.
To relieve spasms during menstruation, NSAIDs are usually prescribed - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen).
The goal of drug treatment is to stop the growth of the endometrium. For this, hormonal drugs are used: THG analogues, progestins and oral contraceptives.
The surgical path is used for the ineffectiveness of drug treatment and the severe stage of the disease. Endometrial foci are removed by the usual surgical route or using laser technology.
It is important to remember that endometriosis is prone to relapse, so some preventive measures must be followed to prevent the re-development of the disease. Prevention includes:
- regular visits to the gynecologist (every 6 months);
- maintaining a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, giving up bad habits;
- timely examination, especially to persons with a family predisposition;
- protection from unwanted pregnancy (since abortion can provoke endometriosis);
If during the menstrual period you are tormented by severe pain that radiates to the back and legs, consult a doctor immediately.
