Endometriosis affects about 10% of reproductive-age women worldwide, according to a statement released on Mar. 25. The condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, most often in the pelvis but sometimes in other parts of the body.
This topic is important because endometriosis can cause significant pain, abnormal bleeding, scarring, infertility, and even increase cancer risk over time. Awareness and early diagnosis are crucial for improving quality of life and limiting long-term complications.
Mary Ellen Wechter, MD, MPH, a minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon with North Florida Gynecologic Specialists who serves patients at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville and Baptist Medical Center Beaches said: “Endometrial glands, whether in the uterus (normal) or outside it (endometriosis) are stimulated by estrogen and suppressed by progesterone. Both hormones occur naturally during the menstrual cycle. Stimulus of endometriosis is inflammatory and causes pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, scarring, infertility and even increases cancer risk over time.”
Dr. Wechter explained that symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or medications that suppress estrogen production by creating temporary menopause. She said: “These medications can decrease pain and improve overall quality of life, but surgery to remove the growths is the only way to truly diagnose the condition and manage deep or extensive disease. For women interested in becoming pregnant, surgery is often the only option because medications to suppress endometriosis also prevent pregnancy.” She added that robotic minimally invasive surgery may be offered for severe cases.
Common symptoms include painful periods (often heavy), pain during intercourse or bowel movements, abdominal bloating, as well as potential infertility issues. Dr. Wechter noted: “If a patient comes in and is experiencing these symptoms, we’ll perform a physical exam and collect information about the severity and duration of the symptoms. Advanced imaging such as MRI is most useful.” She said confirmation typically requires laparoscopic surgery.
The cause of endometriosis remains unknown; however any medication that suppresses menstruation may help reduce its occurrence or severity. Regarding pregnancy outcomes for those diagnosed with endometriosis Dr. Wechter stated: “Fortunately once pregnant women experience high levels of progesterone which suppresses endometriosis.”
As awareness grows through shared experiences among patients faster diagnoses are possible leading to improved outcomes.
