Endometriosis is a condition that affects women and involves the presence of endometrium-like tissue outside the uterine cavity. It is a chronic condition that can cause severe pain and reproductive complications. The following provides information on the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.
Table of contents:
- Definition of endometriosis
- Symptoms of endometriosis
- Causes of endometriosis
- Diagnosis of endometriosis
- Treatment methods
- Pain management
- Psychological support
Definition of endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the endometrium (endometrium) develops outside the uterine cavity. It can occur in various areas such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterine surface and even other internal organs.
Symptoms of endometriosis
Symptoms of endometriosis can include severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), pain during intercourse, pain during urination or defecation, problems getting pregnant, and other discomforts associated with the menstrual cycle.
Causes of endometriosis
The causes of endometriosis are not fully understood, but possible risk factors include heredity, endocrine disruption, reversal of menstrual flow (retrogradation), and environmental factors.
Diagnosis of endometriosis
The diagnosis of endometriosis includes a medical history, physical examination, imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and laparoscopy, which allows the presence of endometriosis to be directly viewed and confirmed.
Treatment methods
Treatment of endometriosis may include pharmacological therapy such as painkillers, hormonal medications, as well as surgical interventions such as laparoscopy or hysterectomy in cases of severe disease.
Pain management
Various methods of pain management are used for endometriosis-related pain, including pharmacotherapy, physical therapies, as well as alternative methods of relief such as acupuncture or biofeedback.
Psychological support
Endometriosis sufferers may require psychological support in relation to severe pain, reproductive problems and the impact of the disease on daily life. Psychological therapy can be helpful in dealing with the emotional impact of the disease.