Hyderabad: Pain during periods is often seen as normal in most cases. However, severe pain during periods could be a sign of a rare condition called endometriosis.
In light of this March being observed as endometriosis awareness month, we contacted Dr Rooma Sinha, chief gynaecologist, and robotic and laparoscopic surgeon from Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad, to explain and debunk myths related to endometriosis.
What is endometriosis?
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), endometriosis is a disease in which the tissues that are supposed to grow inside the uterus lining grow outside. The condition causes severe pain in the pelvic region and complications during labour.
If present, endometriosis can be diagnosed during the first menstrual cycle and it lasts until menopause. Due to the growth of tissues outside the uterus, it causes inflammation in the pelvic area.
Although the actual cause of endometriosis is still unknown, research has yet to find ways to prevent or cure the condition.
The symptoms of the condition include:
- Pain during period
- Pain during intercourse or after intercourse
- Pain while urinating or defecating
- Heavy bleeding during periods or between periods
- Fatigue and anxiety
- Trouble during labour
It is always advisable to seek medical help quickly on the onset of any of the symptoms.
Here are 5 myths about endometriosis
Myth 1: Young women cannot be diagnosed with endometriosis.
Fact: Calling it an absolute myth Dr Rooma said, we find endometriosis in young adolescent women as well. Unbearable pain during periods which makes girls skip school or day-to-day activities could be because of endometriosis. Don’t ignore pain during periods, said Dr Rooma.
Myth 2: A hysterectomy or uterus removal surgery would cure endometriosis.
Fact: Partly true! Removing the uterus can help with the pain if you are suffering from adenomyosis only. But if endometriosis has spread to the ovaries or has other lesions in the pelvis, it has to be addressed properly. A hysterectomy might not be helpful in such cases.
Myth 3: Using tampons or indulging more in sexual activities causes endometriosis.
Fact: Myth. The doctor further explained: “We have no scientific evidence to prove that using tampons or involving in sexual activities can cause endometriosis.”
Myth 4: Endometriosis is preventable.
Fact: Partly false. If you have a genetic predilection then they are very high chances of suffering from endometriosis. However, certain medications can halt its progress. One of the easily accessible medications is contraceptive pills, if diagnosed at an early stage.
Myth 5: Endometriosis causes infertility.
Fact: Partly true since over 30 per cent of patients facing fertility issues can be from endometriosis. Endometriosis is one of the most complex causes of infertility in females. Further, depending on the progress of endometriosis, the patient is advised of proper treatment to facilitate conception.
