Every March, people around the world come together to raise awareness about a condition called endometriosis. This month is dedicated to helping people understand what endometriosis is, how it affects those who have it, and what we can do to support them.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is when tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus starts to grow outside of it. This tissue can grow on other organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and even the intestines. When a person has their menstrual period, this tissue breaks down and bleeds, just like the lining inside the uterus. However, this blood has nowhere to go, which can cause pain, swelling, and scar tissue.
According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, about 1 in 10 women and girls of reproductive age suffer from endometriosis. That’s roughly 200 million people worldwide.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, often associated with menstrual periods. But this pain can be much worse than normal period cramps. Other symptoms include pain during sex, pain with bowel movements or urination, heavy bleeding, and even infertility.
Diagnosing endometriosis can be tricky because its symptoms are similar to other conditions. Doctors usually start with a pelvic exam, followed by imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI. The most definitive way to diagnose it is through laparoscopy, a minor surgical procedure where a camera is inserted into the pelvis to look for endometrial tissue.
Treatment Options
There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. Pain relief medications, hormone therapy, and surgery are commonly used. Hormone therapy can help reduce or eliminate the pain by controlling the hormones that cause the tissue to grow. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary to remove as much endometrial tissue as possible.
Raising Awareness and Supporting Those Affected
National Endometriosis Awareness Month aims to educate people about this condition and encourage them to support those affected. Here are some ways you can help:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about endometriosis and share that knowledge with friends and family.
- Be There for Those Affected: If you know someone with endometriosis, offer them your support. Sometimes, just listening can make a big difference.
- Spread the Word: Use social media or community events to help others learn about endometriosis.
- Support Healthy Habits: Encourage friends and family with endometriosis to take care of themselves and respect their need for rest.
- Talk About It: The more people talk about endometriosis, the more others will understand and be supportive.
Endometriosis is a challenging condition that affects millions of people around the world. By raising awareness and supporting those who are affected, we can help improve their quality of life and move closer to finding a cure. This March, let’s all take the time to learn more about endometriosis and how we can make a difference.
Want to get a head start on your health? Call MHEDS at 814-453-6229 (Peach Street) or 814-616-7730 (John F. Kennedy Center).
Disclaimer
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Sources
- Endometriosis Foundation of America. “About Endometriosis.”
www.endofound.org/endometriosis - Mayo Clinic. “Endometriosis.”
www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656 - National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. “Endometriosis.” www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/endometriosis
