Endometriosis
The endometrium is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus (womb). Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue is found outside the uterus in the abdomen. If left untreated theses endometrial patches could give rise to infertility (due to blocked fallopian tubes) and adhesions. In the ovary they cause cysts (blood filled bubbles) called “Chocolate Cysts”
Symptoms of Endometriosis
- Painful periods. The pain typically begins a few days before the period and usually lasts the whole of the period and subsides after the period.
- Painful intercourse
- Bleeding in between periods
- Difficulty becoming pregnant (reduced fertility)
Diagnose
Endometriosis is diagnosed either by an Ultrasound scan (if chocolate cysts are seen) and diagnosis is confirmed by a Diagnostic Laparoscopy where the patches of endometriosis are not only seen but can be treated at the same time.
Diathermy application to the patches reduces the inflammation/ CYSTECTOMY (taking away the cyst with the wall is compulsory) when done successfully results in pregnancy
Treatment
- Painkillers for endometriosis, but not for long term use
- Hormone treatments for endometriosis