Endometriosis is a long term condition which is common amongst women in the UK. The condition produces a variety of symptoms which vary from person to person.
Endometriosis is caused by a tissue growth which should be found in the lining of a womb is produced elsewhere in the body.
It is estimated that the condition effects about two million women between the ges of 25 and 40 in the UK. Endometriosis is generally not found in women after they have passed the menopause stage.
Facts about endometriosis
- In the UK, one in ten women of reproductive age have the condition
- There are 176 million people with endometriosis worldwide. That is 10% of women in the world
- 30 -50% of women with infertility problems are likely to have endometriosis
- The second most common gynaecological condition within the UK is endometriosis
- People with endometriosis take on average 7.5 years to get a diagnosis following the symptoms onset
- The UK economy spends about £8.2bn annually to treat and pay for sickness due to endometriosis
- There is no known cure for endometriosis
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
The most common symptoms of endometriosis is a pain located in the area between the hip and leg. The symptoms are different in each case where some women can experience this pain constantly while others show no symptoms at all.
Other common symptoms include:
- heavy or painful periods
- pain within the lower back, pelvis or lower abdomen
- pain caused by sex that continues afterwards
- additional bleeding following periods
- finding it difficult to get pregnant
- feeling tired and exhausted
- feeling discomfort when using the toilet
- blood noticed in stools
Where does endometriosis occur
The effects of endometriosis will depend on where the unusual skin growth has appeared. The area where the problem has occurred can make a smaller growth more painful than a large growth in another area.
Endometriosis can occur in the following areas:
- fallopian tubes
- ovaries
- outside of the womb
- Within the abdomen
- bowel
- bladder
A rarer occurrence can be within the lung which may cause the coughing of blood.
Do I have endometriosis?
Symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person so it can be difficult to diagnose the condition.
If you suspect that you have endometriosis you will need to discuss your symptoms with your GP. Your GP will refer you to a specialist gynaecologist for further examination.
The gynaecologist will discuss your symptoms and ask you questions about your periods or sexual activity.
A further examination may be carried out to diagnose the problem. They may recommend an
ultrasound scan or an internal pelvic exam. This will try to identify any cysts in your ovaries that may have developed as a result of endometriosis.
The only way to determine endometriosis is by undergoing a laparoscopy which is a surgical examination that is completed under general anesthetic.
The laparoscopy involves passing a thin tube with a camera into the body through the belly button. The camera will be able to show a specialist any evidence of endometriosis.
Treating endometriosis
Some areas of endometriosis can be removed surgically. This is usually required to help with fertility problems that can result in the condition.
Most people with endometriosis can be treated by hormone medication and painkillers. This medication is not able to cure the problem but can reduce the problem from interfering in your daily lifestyle.
Nutrition advice for Endometriosis
There are many benefits of a healthy diet for people with endometriosis. Diet and lifestyle can improve the way that you feel and help relieve symptoms. You will also be able to boost the effectiveness of your immune system and improve overall health.
Eating a balanced diet which includes anti-inflammatory foods is believed to be beneficial to the condition. Some foods can act as a trigger and negatively effect the condition. Other foods are able to assist with controlling hormones which effect the symptoms of endometriosis.
Discussing your particular symptoms and dietary habits with a nutritionist can help alleviate some of the discomfort that you experience. A nutritionist will help you to design a specific guide to foods that you should eat more of and foods that you should avoid.
The nutrition advise will work alongside the recommendations of your GP or specialist medical advisor. A tailor made plan will take into account your medical history and current lifestyle choices.
Ways to improve your lifestyle choices include:
- Stop smoking
- Drink less alcohol and caffeine
- Get more physical activity
- Ensuring that you eat a balanced diet which includes essential fatty acids, fibre and iron
- Drink lots of water
Further Reading
Visit the Endometriosis UK website.
Read more about endometriosis on the NHS website.