Endometriosis - What is it?

 What exactly is Endometriosis? 

Endometriosis  - (en-doe-me-tree-O-sis) is a Chronic illness that is often painful. 1 in 10 individuals with a Uterus have it. Although this is believed to be inaccurate due to the length of time it takes to get diagnosed. Tissue that is similar to the lining that grows inside the Uterus, grows outside of the uterus. Commonly found on; the ovaries, colon, outside of the uterus, outside of the cervix, large and small intestines, tissues lining the pelvis etc. There is no known cure. No known cause although believed to be hereditary. Minimal research being done. Minimal information available online. 

Common symptoms include: painful ovulation, painful periods, pain in between periods, painful urination, painful bowel movements, painful intercourse, back pain, shooting pain in legs, shoulder pain, pain in ribs, sudden pain (Flare ups) lasting for long periods of time, digestive issues, constipation, nausea, food sensitivity, head aches, extreme fatigue and more.

How do you know you have Endometriosis?

It often takes 5-10 years before you receive a 100% diagnosis. Can often only be done through Laparoscopy surgery. Your doctor may perform multiple ultra sounds, blood tests, MRIs etc with nothing showing up. 
If you have an immediate family member (sister, mom, aunt, grandma) that has medically diagnosed Endometriosis, there is a higher risk of development.

What treatment is there?

Hormone therapy- is doctors go to treatment. Birth control of some kind. Successful in some cases.

Surgery- to have the Endometriosis removed, burned out or as much removed as possible. Hysterectomy, partial or full can aid extreme cases. Doctors avoid surgery.(or at least I find they do).

Pain management- doctors often think Tylenol or Advil will help. Personally, I might as well have taken a Skittles. Extreme pain management medication is an option for extreme cases. However, medication is highly addictive and can cause other issues.

There are other forms of treatments that doctors recommend trying to help with pain and flare ups. I personally have done Pelvic Physiotherapy, Yoga and multiple medications.

Endometriosis has been found in the lungs, heart and stomach of patients. Patients show signs of Endometriosis as early as their first period.