Clinical specialtyEndometriosis, a condition which, according to the World Health Organisation, affects roughly 10% of global reproductive-age women and girls, can be life-altering, having long-term effects on patients' lives. Despite its relative prevalence, endometriosis remains a challenging condition to diagnose effectively, and in spite of ongoing research, no cure is currently available.
Because of this, identifying and managing symptoms and early diagnosis is crucial in physicians' approach to provide effective physical and mental patient care. But what exactly is endometriosis, and how can ultrasound technology aid in diagnosis and treatment?
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition affecting reproductive and pelvic organs where tissue cells similar to that of the lining of the womb grow externally from the uterus. This tissue growth (endometrium) commonly affects ovaries, fallopian tubes and pelvic tissue. In rare cases, this can extend beyond the pelvic organs. What causes endometriosis is unclear, but risk factors include high levels of estrogen, early onset of menstruation, heavy menstrual cycles or other reproductive tract disorders.
This endometrial tissue continues its function as part of the menstrual cycle: thickening, breaking down and bleeding. However, as this rogue tissue has no route to leave the body, it can become trapped, leading to internal scarring, development of cysts, irritation and adhesions.
Over time, if left untreated, this can cause significant problems regarding fertility, often requiring invasive treatment such as surgery to alleviate symptoms or improve the chances of successful pregnancies.
What are the symptoms?
Endometriosis can present a wide range of different symptoms. For this reason, it can be difficult to diagnose and is often mistaken for other conditions affecting the pelvic area, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts, or even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
The most common symptom is severe pelvic pain, in excess of usual menstrual cramping or associated discomfort. This pain may increase over time and, in many cases, is not only present during menstruation but is also chronically felt in the lower back and pelvic region.
Other symptoms vary and can include:
- Pain during sexual intercourse. Pain during or after sex is a commonly reported symptom of those suffering from the condition.
- Pain during bowel movements or urination. This is most commonly reported during the menstrual cycle.
- Excessive bleeding. This may take the form of heavier-than-usual menstrual periods or bleeding between periods.
- Individuals seeking infertility treatment are often diagnosed with endometriosis without prior knowledge of the condition.
- This can occur both during and outside of menstrual periods.
In addition to these symptoms, those with endometriosis may experience constipation, bloating, nausea and diarrhoea or notice blood in their urine or stool. Sufferers may also experience depression, anxiety or other forms of mental distress. The sooner the conversation begins regarding any associated symptom, the sooner effective steps can be taken towards a better quality of life.
What treatment is available?
Currently, no cure is available for endometriosis. Treatment focuses on the prevention and management of symptoms. The condition can be debilitating and severely impact the mental and physical well-being of sufferers. For many, receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis can be distressing, but it can also be the starting point towards better care and symptom management.
For many women, discussing the condition and its symptoms can be upsetting; some may find it difficult to share details with physicians or close friends and family. For a healthier future, women should seek advice and support as early as possible if experiencing symptoms associated with endometriosis or any other pelvic condition.
Treatments for endometriosis vary between cases and individual needs, but can include courses of painkillers, hormones, contraceptives and other medicines, or, in more chronic or severe cases, may involve surgery to remove endometrial or damaged tissue.
Why is early diagnosis so important?
Endometriosis can affect reproductive women and girls from an early age. If left untreated, it can lead to infertility or other serious conditions. Some research indicates that endometriosis can place sufferers at a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer.
The condition also impacts the daily lives of sufferers, often making routine everyday tasks difficult. As such, the earlier a diagnosis can be made, the sooner effective treatment can commence and better care and support can be provided. Patients often feel anxiety and frustration when discussing symptoms or may struggle to explain their feelings. Knowing that an effective diagnosis has been made can provide relief and ensure that women feel heard and their concerns validated.
Both ultrasound and MRI are effective tools in the diagnosis process. For physicians, these tools can aid them in identifying endometriosis and avoiding misdiagnoses. Ultrasound technologies, such as those found throughout the broad portfolio of Voluson products, break clinical boundaries by offering clarity and flexibility during the examination process, helping physicians impact patients' lives faster and more reactively.
Interested in finding out more about how to effectively diagnose conditions such as endometriosis, or want to discover other resources to broaden your understanding? Explore how GE HealthCare provides the tools for a healthier present and future for women: LINK
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