There has been a recent surge in how women’s health facilities are being developed. This has been brought about by the increased emphasis on the importance of women’s healthcare in our communities. Women, who are critical in starting families, have found their needs being looked into more. An example of a condition affecting women’s health is Jackson Heights endometriosis. More about this condition and its management are discussed in detail below.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when a new tissue similar to the one found in the uterus is found growing outside the uterus. This tissue behaves like normal uterine tissue during monthly periods in that it disintegrates and bleeds as each cycle ends. This blood has nowhere to go; thus, surrounding areas may be swollen or inflamed. Lesions and scar tissue may also be found.
The various types of endometriosis depend on the affected part, i.e.:
· Ovarian lesions are characterized by dark cysts full of fluid that form in your ovaries. They respond poorly to treatment and can harm healthy tissue
· The superficial peritoneal lesion is the most widespread, with lesions occurring in the thin film that lines the pelvic cavity
· Profoundly infiltrating endometriosis occurs below your peritoneum and involves organs surrounding your uterus like the bladder or bowels
Signs and Symptoms
Signs may not always be noticeable, but some of the ones that may occur include:
· Severe menstrual cramps
· Back pain during your period
· Heavy or unusual period bleeding
· Pain when peeing or pooping, especially during your periods
· Constipation or diarrhea
· Blood in your urine or stool
· Fatigue that will not go away
· Painful sex
· Difficulty getting pregnant
The primary cause of endometriosis is not well known. Speculations say that menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back into the fallopian tube and pelvic cavity, thus sticking to organs.
Your genes may play a part, too, in that if your sister or mother has the condition, you may also get it.
Endometriosis may interfere with some of your reproductive organs, inhibiting your chances of getting pregnant in ways like:
· The tissue may block sperm from moving up the fallopian tubes
· Your eggs may be blocked from release as the endometrial tissue can be wrapped around the ovaries
· A fertilized egg may be stopped from sliding down the tubes to your uterus
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis may involve:
· Imaging tests like CT, MRI, or ultrasound scans
· Pelvic exam
· Biopsy
· Laparoscopy to observe using a tiny camera
Endometriosis has no known cure, although treatments to manage symptoms may include:
Hormones
Hormonal therapy to lower estrogen amounts, thus controlling the amount of bleeding and subsequent scarring, inflammation, and cyst formation.
Pain medicine
These include pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen.
Surgery
This may be done to eliminate as much affected tissue as possible, thus enabling the possibility of pregnancy.
Endometriosis may have no physical effects or be a discomforting condition depending on the type and severity level. For any endometriosis inquiries, check our website or call our offices in Forest Hills, NY.
