If you have been enduring unbearable period pain each month, you might be suffering from endometriosis. Endometriosis is a painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus — the endometrium — grows outside your uterus. The extent of the growth is classified into four stages, ranging from minimal to severe, and may potentially affect other organs such as the bladder, ureter, and bowels.
Why should I be concerned about endometriosis?
During your period, the endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus undergoes a series of changes in response to hormonal fluctuations, releasing blood and inflammatory substances. This process causes the tissue to grow, thicken, and break down. However, when this occurs, the broken-down tissue cannot be expelled and consequently gets trapped in the pelvic area.
Over time, this leads to several complications, such as the binding of your pelvic organs and scar formation that can result in unbearable period pain and disruptions in your menstrual cycle. The condition may also impede a woman’s chances of conceiving, with research indicating that as much as 50% of individuals with endometriosis may develop infertility issues.
What causes endometriosis?
While endometriosis can affect women of all ages, it most commonly develops years after the onset of menstruation and tends to impact women when:
- They are in their 30s and 40s.
- They have a family history of endometriosis.
- They have not had children.
- They have a history of menstrual problems such as shorter cycles and early onset of menstruation before the age of 12.
What are the first signs of endometriosis?
Individuals with endometriosis typically experience:
- Pain: This is often the primary symptom and can come in various forms, including
- Unbearable period pain that may worsen over time
- Painful intercourse that can lead to a disruption or avoidance of sexual activity, potentially affecting the sexual health of both the affected individual and their partner
- Pain during bowel movements or urination
- Chronic lower back and pelvic pain
- Chronic fatigue
- Depression or anxiety
- Bleeding or spotting between periods
- Infertility
- Digestive problems: This includes bloating, nausea, constipation and diarrhoea especially just before or during your menstrual periods.
How to diagnose endometriosis?
Nonetheless, not everyone with endometriosis may have the symptoms. In fact, an estimated 20 to 25% of women have asymptomatic or silent endometriosis, which may go unnoticed until the condition is discovered during an infertility investigation or another medical procedure.
To determine if you have endometriosis, please come into Osler Health for a women’s health screening. We will discuss your symptoms and conduct a pelvic exam to detect the presence of endometriotic cysts and detect the signs of scar tissue. Depending upon your needs, we may suggest an ultrasound scan which allows for a direct visual inspection and biopsy of any concerning areas.
Manage endometriosis with Osler Health in Singapore
From affecting your sexual and reproductive health to reducing your quality of life and overall well-being, endometriosis can be debilitating. If you’re currently grappling with the symptoms of endometriosis each month, you needn’t suffer alone. Please make your appointment to see one of the doctors at Osler Health International.If you prefer, we have female doctors who can look after your health.
Our team of skilled doctors have years of practice in offering women’s health screening services and treating diverse women’s medical conditions, including endometriosis. We recognise that each individual has different medical needs, which is why we tailor treatments to cater to your unique situation. With Osler Health, you can trust that you are in good hands. Don’t let endometriosis control your life any longer – book an appointment with our clinic in Singapore and seek relief today.
