Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful disorder in which the endometrial-like tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This tissue acts like normal endometrial tissue and thickens, breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle, but with no way to exit the body, it becomes trapped. The most common areas for endometrial tissue to grow are the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining the pelvis. In rare cases, it can grow beyond the pelvic area.
Symptoms of Endometriosis:
The primary symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, often associated with menstrual periods. Women with endometriosis often describe menstrual pain that is far worse than normal. Other symptoms include painful intercourse, pain during bowel movements or urination, excessive bleeding, infertility, fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, especially during menstrual periods. The severity of the pain may not reflect the extent of the condition.
Causes of Endometriosis:
The exact cause of endometriosis is not known, but possible explanations include retrograde menstruation, transformation of peritoneal cells, embryonic cell transformation, surgical scar implantation, endometrial cell transport, and an immune system disorder.
Risk Factors for Endometriosis:
Risk factors for endometriosis include never giving birth, starting your period at an early age, going through menopause at an older age, short menstrual cycles, heavy menstrual periods, higher levels of estrogen, low body mass index, a family history of endometriosis, and medical conditions that prevent the passage of menstrual blood from the body.
Impact on Working Women with Young Children:
Endometriosis can have a significant impact on working women with young children. The chronic pain and other symptoms can cause difficulty in performing daily tasks and can lead to fatigue and decreased productivity. The unpredictability of symptoms can also make it difficult for women with endometriosis to manage their work and family responsibilities.
Treatment for Endometriosis:
Endometriosis can be treated through medication, surgery or a combination of both. Effective treatments are available and early diagnosis, a multidisciplinary medical team, and an understanding of the diagnosis can result in better management of symptoms.
In conclusion
endometriosis is a chronic disorder that affects the reproductive system and can cause significant pain and other symptoms. If you have symptoms of endometriosis, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.