The tissue that lines inside of your uterus is termed as endometrium. Sometimes this tissue grows at other places as well. This condition is known as endometriosis. In endometriosis generally the endometrium grows on ovaries, fallopian tubes and other pelvic organs. In some cases, it grows on parts of the body other than pelvic region.
Symptoms of endometriosis:
Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)- With endometriosis you may feel severe abdominal cramping and backache during your menstrual cycle. You may also experience pelvic pain a few days before and after your menses.
Menorrhagia – Excessive bleeding can be observed. Sometimes you may experience bleeding between your periods.
Dyspareunia – pain during or after sex can be observed.
Infertility – The endometrial tissue growing especially on the ovaries or outside or inside of fallopian tubes can lead to infertility.
Causes of endometriosis:
Certain ideas exist related to the causes of endometriosis.
Retrograde menstruation – This is said to occur when the blood and tissue during a menstrual cycle flow out through the fallopian tube into the abdominal cavity.
Surgery- Endometrial cells may get attached to a surgical incision during a hysterectomy or C- section.
Transport – endometrial cells may get transported to other parts of body through the blood vessels or the lymphatic system.
Transformation – Another possible explanation is that peritoneal cells (cells from tissue lining the abdominal organs) or embryonic cells (cells in the earliest stage of development of a foetus) get transformed into endometrial cells under the influence of hormones or immune factors.
Detailed case history and clinical examination lay the foundation for diagnosis. Investigations for endometriosis include:
Ultrasound – Abdominal and/or transvaginal sonography may be performed which helps the doctor to view your reproductive organs. This technique can help to detect cysts associated with endometriosis but cannot make a complete diagnosis of endometriosis.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – In this technique magnetic field and radio waves are used to create detailed image of organs and tissues. MRI gives detailed information regarding the size and location of endometrial growths.
Laparoscopy- This is a procedure wherein a surgeon inserts a slender viewing instrument known as laparoscope through a tiny incision in your abdomen. This provides information about the size and location of the endometrial implant. The surgeon is also able to take a sample of endometrial tissue for histopathological examination. The surgeon may also be able to treat endometriosis during laparoscopy.
At Dyumna Women’s clinic, our first step in planning your treatment plan is to understand your body metabolism and symptoms through detailed case history.
We study your test reports or advise for more recent ones if needed. Your personalised treatment protocol is then planned which comprises of:
Personalised medicines – Herbomineral preparations are prescribed.
Specialised procedures- We advise and perform procedures such as abhyang, Swedan, Virechan, Basti, Uttarbasti with the aim to control the growth of endometrium at unwanted regions as well as to give symptomatic relief.
Lifestyle modifications – Suggestions related to your food habits, sleep pattern, exercise and Pranayam are given on a personal basis.
Results or effect of treatment are assessed on a regular basis clinically as well with investigative techniques.
Surgery is advisable in cases with growth of endometrium over large areas, especially in areas other than pelvic region.