Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition for many women. Despite how common it is, many of them are not aware of their options and suffer in silence without proper treatment.

Learn more about endometriosis, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

Endometriosis

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue akin to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs. Known as the endometrium, this tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle.

However, because it is outside the uterus, the blood cannot exit the body, leading to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions in the affected area.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The symptoms of endometriosis vary widely among women. Common symptoms include:

Pain During or After Intercourse: Many patients with endometriosis experience pain during or following sexual intercourse.
Bowel and Bladder Issues: Pain during bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation.
Heavy or Irregular Menstrual Bleeding: Prolonged periods or bleeding between cycles.
Fatigue: Constant tiredness and low energy levels.
Infertility: Endometriosis can lead to challenges with conceiving, making it a common cause of infertility.

These symptoms can impact daily life, work, and relationships, making it necessary for women experiencing them to seek medical advice.

Causes of Endometriosis

Several factors may contribute to endometriosis:

Retrograde Menstruation

A process in which menstrual blood flows in reverse, through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity instead of flowing out of the body, allowing endometrial cells to attach and grow outside the uterus.

Genetics

Endometriosis often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

Hormonal Imbalance

High oestrogen levels can promote endometrial tissue growth, increasing the likelihood of endometriosis.

Immune System Dysfunction

Some experts believe that an immune system issue may prevent the body from identifying and destroying endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus.

Surgical Scars

After surgeries like a C-section or hysterectomy, endometrial cells can adhere to the incision and form endometriosis in that area.

Diagnosing Endometriosis

Diagnosing endometriosis involves a combination of tests:

Pelvic Exam: A doctor may feel for cysts or scar tissue in the pelvic area during a physical exam, though smaller areas of endometriosis may not be detectable this way.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasounds or MRIs can provide images of the pelvic area and help identify endometriosis or related cysts, though these methods may not detect smaller lesions.
Laparoscopy: This is the most definitive diagnostic procedure for endometriosis. During laparoscopy, a specialist inserts a small camera through a small incision near the belly button, allowing for a close examination of the pelvic organs. If endometriosis is found, tissue samples can be taken for further analysis.

Endometriosis Treatment Options

There are various approaches to treating endometriosis, depending on the intensity of symptoms, the extent of tissue growth, and individual treatment goals. Treatment generally falls into two categories: non-surgical and surgical.

Surgical Treatment

When symptoms are severe, or fertility is affected, surgery may be recommended to remove or reduce endometrial tissue.

Laparoscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive surgery involves small incisions and the use of a camera to locate and remove endometrial tissue, cysts, and adhesions. It’s the most common surgical treatment and is preferred due to its shorter recovery time and reduced risks.
Open Surgery: In severe cases where endometriosis has spread extensively, an open surgery may be necessary to remove larger areas of tissue. This option is more invasive and involves a longer recovery time.
Hysterectomy: In extreme cases where other treatments were unsuccessful, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be considered significantly if symptoms severely impact the quality of life and fertility preservation is no longer a priority. In most cases, the ovaries are also removed to lower the risk of recurrence, as they produce estrogen that can fuel endometrial tissue growth.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Non-surgical options often focus on managing pain and slowing the growth of endometrial tissue:

Pain Relievers: Using analgesics such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) can help reduce pain, though they do not treat the underlying condition.
Hormonal Therapy: Hormone-based treatments, such as birth control pills, progestin therapy, and Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, can reduce or eliminate menstrual periods, reducing the growth of endometrial tissue and lessening symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, exercising regularly, and managing stress can positively affect symptoms for some women.

Endometriosis Treatment in Singapore

Endometriosis is a complex condition that requires individualised care and treatment. Seeking support from a qualified specialist can make a significant difference in understanding and treating this condition, empowering you to live a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

At Pacific Healthcare Specialist Centre, our approach to treating endometriosis combines comprehensive diagnostics, personalised treatment plans, and expert care. We specialise in minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures, providing effective symptom relief and minimal downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is endometriosis related to other health conditions?

Yes, research suggests that women with endometriosis have a higher risk of developing autoimmune disorders, fibromyalgia, and certain cancers, such as ovarian cancer. However, these risks are relatively low, and routine monitoring with your healthcare provider can help manage any potential complications.

Can endometriosis worsen over time?

Endometriosis can progress, leading to increased pain and other complications. This varies by individual; for some women, symptoms remain mild and stable, while others may experience worsening symptoms. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment can help slow progression.

Is endometriosis a form of cancer?

Endometriosis is not a type of cancer. It is a benign condition, though it does involve the abnormal growth of tissue. However, there is a slight increase in the risk of ovarian cancer among women with endometriosis.

Can endometriosis return after treatment?

Yes, endometriosis can recur even after surgical treatment, especially if the ovaries are not removed. Recurrence is more common within a few years post-surgery. Some women may need ongoing treatment or follow-up surgeries to manage symptoms.

How does endometriosis affect menopause?

Menopause can reduce or eliminate endometriosis symptoms for some women due to the drop in estrogen levels, which fuels endometrial growth. However, those taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may see symptoms return as HRT reintroduces estrogen into the body.

Your healthcare provider can help you decide on the best options for managing endometriosis during and after menopause.

Endometriosis

What is Endometriosis?

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Causes of Endometriosis

Retrograde Menstruation

Genetics

Hormonal Imbalance

Immune System Dysfunction

Surgical Scars

Diagnosing Endometriosis

Endometriosis Treatment Options

Surgical Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment

Endometriosis Treatment in Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions

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