As many as 10% of those assigned female at birth are affected by endometriosis. Still, despite the fact that it is so common, many go undiagnosed for up to seven years from the onset of their symptoms without a diagnosis.
The condition may or may not progress during this time, but importantly individuals can continue to struggle with the symptoms. So, what happens if endometriosis is left untreated? Whether you have been diagnosed or not, it’s essential to watch any potential symptoms closely so that your gynaecologist can better assist you in treating and diagnosing endometriosis.
How Endometriosis Affects Individuals
Endometriosis occurs when the endometrial-like tissue forms outside the uterus. Owing to the nature of the tissue, it responds to hormones released by the ovaries. As a result, this may trigger bleeding and scarring as the tissue forms in the pelvic region. Endometriosis affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the lining between the pelvic organs. Those affected can experience painful and heavy periods, bleeding between periods, fatigue, bloating, sex can be painful, painful bowel actions, reduced fertility and other pelvic pain not related to the period.
Why Endometriosis Needs To Be Treated
Those affected by endometriosis may suffer to varying degrees, but in its worst forms, it hinders a woman’s quality of life. The chronic pain accompanying endometriosis affects more than one’s physical health; it also affects both mental and emotional well-being.
In about half of the cases, endometriosis will progress with the deposits of endometrial-like tissue growing and/or forming additional deposits in the pelvic region. In some cases, the symptoms of endometriosis may settle with menopause.
Left untreated, endometriosis may lead to complications such as:
- Debilitating pelvic pain
- Adhesions and ovarian cysts
- Infertility
- Pelvic infection (swollen, non-functional Fallopian tubes)
- Bladder or bowel problems
- Possible higher risk of ovarian cancer
How To Treat Endometriosis
Treatment of endometriosis begins with non-invasive diagnosis of this debilitating condition. The simplest, most cost-effective imaging modality for the diagnosis of endometriosis is transvaginal ‘deep endometriosis’ultrasound. Once the doctor has a diagnosis, they will suggest various treatment methods.
Common treatments for endometriosis include:
Pain killers – some relief can be found through paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
Hormone treatments – hormonal treatments can offer some pain relief and in some instances slow the growth of the endometriosis.
Laparoscopy – this keyhole surgery serves to remove the disease and restore the anatomy to normal in more severe cases.
Hysterectomy – when the symptoms are related to underlying adenomyosis (i.e. where the lining of the uterus grows into the muscle of the uterus),removal of the uterus, cervix and fallopian tubes can be an option.
Bowel surgery – if the bowel wall is affected by endometriosis, a piece of the bowel may need to be removed and this will be done by your multi-disciplinary team of gynaecologists and colorectal surgeons.
If you suspect you may have endometriosis, it’s best to get a proper diagnosis using ‘deep endometriosis’ ultrasound. This will assist your team in diagnosis and planning management according to the severity and the level of pain experienced. Through appropriate intervention, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
