Common symptoms of endometriosis which affects one in 10 women

British Singer and songwriter Ella Henderson reveals she was officially diagnosed endometriosis In January.

endometriosis Affects one in 10 women in the UK and one in five women determined at birth, according to endometriosis ukHowever, it remains a widely misunderstood condition.

In a video posted to Instagram, the 29-year-old singer said: “It’s been a bit of a roller coaster ride behind the scenes over the last few years. I’ve really been battling not only the bloating and physical pain, but my pain as well.” mental health On the basis that at one time I thought it was all in my mind and I didn’t really believe it.

Henderson said that although it was “devastating news”, it was “the most validating and empowering feeling because I can finally take control of my body”.

“I feel very, very lucky that I was able to have a laparoscopy earlier this year to find out what I had. Talking to other women with endometriosis and learning about it and understanding it more, and how to live with it, has been so important to me in feeling like I’m not alone.”

Emma Cox, CEO endometriosis uksaid that she “appreciates Ella for sharing her experience of endometriosis in such an open and candid way, highlighting the significant and damaging impact this condition can have on all aspects of one’s life”.

“Ella’s willingness to share her story will undoubtedly help others in their diagnosis journey; helping them access the care they need.”

London Gynecology experts have explained what endometriosis is and what are some of its common symptoms that should be paid attention to.

What is endometriosis?

“Endometriosis is an oestrogen-induced, chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, causing various symptoms including painful menstruation,” explains Mr Hemant Vakharia, consultant gynecologist specializing in endometriosis and advanced minimal access surgery at London Gynecology.

Endometriosis is often classified into four main types – which refer to the location, quantity and depth of endometrial lesions – and accordingly it is possible to have more than one type. endometriosis uk,

Here are some explanations of the different types, listed endometriosis ukWebsite:

What are the common symptoms, and how are they different from normal menstrual cramps?

“Painful menstruation, known as dysmenorrhea, is a common sign of endometriosis,” Vakharia explains.

“Endometriotic cells are stimulated by hormones in your natural cycle which cause inflammation and pain.”

Another typical symptom is dyspareunia, which is the medical term for painful intercourse.

“Inflammation can cause pelvic structures to stick together and develop thickening in the tissues,” says Vakharia. “As a result of inflammation and thickening, patients with endometriosis may experience pain during intercourse.”

It can also affect your intestines.

“In patients who have endometriotic deposits on their bowel, or where inflammation causes their bowel to stick to other structures, opening up their bowel can be painful,” says the endometriosis expert. “This may happen with their periods or all the time.”

Other problems include chest pain during menstruation, difficulty conceiving and ovarian cysts, says Vakharia.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

“If you suspect you have endometriosis, it’s a good idea to talk to your GP First of all, who will take history from you and examine you,” advises Vakharia. “Often, they will request a pelvic ultrasound and discuss the results with you.”

However, endometriosis is not always visible on standard imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI.

“This is especially true in superficial endometriosis, where signs may be very subtle or when the disease affects areas that cannot be easily seen,” Vakharia highlights. “If you have been told your scan is normal but have persistent symptoms, such as chronic pelvic pain, heavy menstruation, or pain during sex, it is essential to advocate for yourself and seek a specialist for further evaluation.”

When should women seek medical help?

“It can be difficult to differentiate between ‘normal’ periods and ‘heavy or painful’ periods, as there is often no objective way to compare,” says Mr Narendra Pisal, consultant gynecologist at London Gynaecology. “Many women tolerate that time of the month and are told to carry on.

“However, if you have to put your life on hold for those few days or if your sex life is affected by pain during sex, it’s time to pay attention and ask for some tests.”

Peasall admits that it can be challenging for a GP to identify the root cause during a 10-minute appointment, so she suggests keeping a diary to track when your symptoms occur and how intense the pain is.

“Keep a diary of your menstrual cycle with a system for noting heaviness, pain, and severity, with particular emphasis on any other symptoms,” suggests Pisl.

“Also note whether you need to take painkillers and how much. If the symptoms are affecting your life and requiring you to take time off work, this is also an important factor.”

What treatment options are available for endometriosis?

“Patients can be treated with the combined pill, progesterone-only pill, progesterone intrauterine device, or surgery,” says Vakharia. “Sometimes, we also use drugs that temporarily induce menopause By blocking hormonal signals in the ovaries that reduce the stimulation of endometriotic tissue. This option is often used before surgery for serious disease.

“Laparoscopy will allow diagnosis and excision of the disease which may improve symptoms. In patients with severe disease, they may require a two-stage procedure.”