How serious is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition which affects many women in the UK, provoking pain, fatigue and gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation. Leading consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Mr Clemens von Widekind explains everything you need to know about the condition.

What's endometriosis? Is it a serious condition?

Endometriosis is a health condition which affects many women, and leads to symptoms historically dismissed as typical female health issues. This dismissive approach has resulted in many women experiencing delayed diagnoses and subsequent complications.

However, with an accurate diagnosis, treatment options become available, offering the potential to improve quality of life and preserve fertility. This is particularly important for women dealing with the chronic pelvic inflammation that often comes with the condition, significantly disrupting their daily lives and impacting them negatively.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis? Can it lead to other health conditions?

The principal symptoms of endometriosis include lower abdominal pain, painful periods, and pain with intercourse. This pain is heightened during periods and ovulation.

Unfortunately, some women experience endometriosis which affects the bowel, bladder, and ureter, which can lead to bowel function problems or problems with the ureters, therefore posing a threat to kidney function. However, this is the worst-case scenario and is not common. The vast majority of patients have pain which can simply improve by providing pain relief and suppressive treatment.

It should be noted that the suppressive treatments are individualised and therefore are tailored to each patient.

What can cause endometriosis? Is stress a factor?

The causes of endometriosis are not completely clear. There are several theories as to why it occurs. One concept (which many doctors believe) suggests that during menstruation, cells from the uterine lining may escape into the abdominal cavity, where they implant and grow.

Another concept is that cells possess the potential for various functions, and they may alter their activity under certain circumstances. In the pelvic region, for reasons which are unknown, cell function can be disrupted, leading to the sudden appearance of small blood deposits or blisters. These can progress to more severe manifestations such as scarring, nodules, or cysts.

The exact cause remains unclear, and while stress is not identified as a direct factor, the chronic pain associated with the condition can undoubtedly induce significant stress, affecting both mental health and relationships. As a result, obtaining an early and accurate diagnosis is crucial, permitting the patient to start early with a treatment plan, when necessary.

How is endometriosis treated? Can it go away without treatment?

Treating endometriosis involves a variety of approaches, with the choice often influenced by individual tolerance to medications. Commonly prescribed drugs include progesterone-only pills or combined oral contraceptives, although many women experience difficulties with these options. In such cases, alternatives may be explored, or a minimally invasive procedure such as laparoscopy may be recommended. This procedure involves examining the abdominal cavity, determining the stage of endometriosis, and removing the affected tissue. Subsequently, individuals may opt to forgo hormonal suppressive therapy or pursue pregnancy, although the latter decision should not solely revolve around the condition.

Overall, while improvement in endometriosis is rare, expert intervention can greatly enhance management. Tailoring treatment to each person's needs is essential, and specialised care can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

If you are suffering from endometriosis and would like to book a consultation with Mr von Widekind, simply visit his Top Doctors profile today.