Endometriosis awareness month

By: WE Staff | Wednesday, 30 March 2022

Endometriosis may result in the formation of scar tissue (adhesions, fibrosis) within the pelvis and other parts of the body. During their reproductive years endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women.

Dr Shobha Gupta, medical director, gynecologist and ivf specialist at mother's lap ivf centre explained, "Endometriosis is a medical problem or a common disorder that has emotional consequences for women. It is a disease that occurs when tissue that normally grows inside the uterus grows outside it. During a normal menstrual cycle, the body sheds the endometrium via the vagina. In endometriosis, rather than flowing out, this lining flows backwards and enters other parts of the body."

She said, "Diagnosing endometriosis is more difficult in Indian women. It generally affects the age group of 25-30 years but these days, it is found in the age group of 11-19 as well. So, it is very important to be aware of the symptoms of endometriosis and the treatments available for it."

"The endometriosis treatment depends on several factors like the age of the lady, the severity of the symptoms and desire to have children. In some cases, over the counter drugs are enough to manage the symptoms. A hormonal intrauterine device (iud) is another option that can be inserted to help reduce pain and bleeding," she added.

She said, "Young women with endometriosis who want to conceive may require specialised treatments like iui or ivf (test tube baby). If the patient is older and has had repeated surgeries, a total hysterectomy with oophorectomy (removing uterus and ovaries) is the final solution."

She advised, "You can also go for natural treatments to treat endometriosis, such as adopting healthier eating habits like lessening or eliminating caffeine, sugar, and alcohol and consuming organic food and supplementing essential nutrients such as vitamin b complex may help lower your estrogen level. You can also do exercise, yoga, and meditation to improve your general and reproductive health."