How To Identify Endometriosis Symptoms

There are many factors that contribute to infertility. One of these factors is the condition called endometriosis. In this article, you will learn more about endometriosis symptoms, so you can potentially identify them yourself at the very first instance and thereby helping you safeguard your fertility.

But first, let us understand what endometriosis is.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition in which there is an abnormal growth of endometrial cells that are located on other parts of the body other than the uterus. The endometrium is responsible for the thick, rich lining of the uterus in preparation for pregnancy. If in case fertilization does not occur, the endometrium sloughs off and is shed by means of menstruation. The problem with endometriosis is that the abnormal endometrial cells implant themselves on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and oftentimes on the intestines. When menstruation occurs, these cells also shed off, causing pain to the areas where they have been implanted.

The causes of endometriosis are still unknown. However, several theories have been made. One of these theories is the existence of primitive cells lining the pelvic organs. These cells are thought to give rise to endometrial cells, thus allowing them to proliferate in unusual places.

Transfer of endometrial cells during retrograde menstruation or through the bloodstream or lymphatic drainage may be another cause. Likewise, the transfer of endometrial cells may also occur during a pelvic surgery or a previous caesarian section.

Identifying Endometriosis Symptoms

Since most cases of endometriosis are asymptomatic, it may be hard to identify if you are experiencing it or not. But for those whose symptoms are present, the most common are the following:

• Pelvic pain that usually occurs before or during menstruation, and lessens after it.
• Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, or sometimes, cramping during intercourse.
• Painful bowel movement
• Painful urination
• Lower back pain
• Blood tinged urine
• Rare symptoms may include chest pain or coughing out of blood due to endometriosis in the lungs, or possibly, headaches and/or seizures due to endometriosis in the brain.

The intensity of pain in pelvic areas depends partly on the areas where the implants are located. Likewise, those that are embedded deeper produce more intensity of pain because of their proximity to pain-causing nerves. Perhaps the most devastating effect endometriosis has on women is the fact that it may potentially cause infertility.

The reason for this is that the misplaced endometrial cells tend to leave scar tissues and may cause anatomical changes in the fallopian tubes, ovaries or on the structures they’re from. These changes may occur as blockages or obstructions on the passage of eggs. Another reason for its infertility-related effect is the hormonal imbalance that is brought about by the presence of endometriosis. This can have a negative effect on ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of the fertilized egg on the endometrium.

The diagnosis of endometriosis can be based on the symptoms of pelvic pain and findings during physical examinations in the doctor’s office. In this case, the doctor may be able to feel nodules behind the uterus and along the ligaments that attach to the pelvic wall. An ultrasound may be used to have a more definitive diagnosis, but a direct visualization of the uterus, as well as tissue implants biopsies are more preferred. Because of this, perhaps the most accurate way of diagnosing endometriosis is by laparoscopy.

Endometriosis Signs and Symptoms

By learning how to identify endometriosis, you can protect yourself from undesirable complications such as infertility and adhesions, ovarian cysts and pelvic masses.

• Pay attention to unusual pelvic pain that occurs before or during menstruation. Most women disregard this, thinking that pain associated with cramping from menstruation is the cause. Be cautious in assessing your pain.
• If pelvic pain occurs at other times of the month or towards nearing menstruation, have yourself checked. Oftentimes, this pain is accompanied by bloating, or a sense of heaviness in the lower abdomen.
• Watch out for dull lower back pain that gets worse in relation to any physical activity. Pain may radiate and extend up to mid-back and may produce cramping, spasms and aching.
• Should you notice bleeding during urination or if blood is present in your stool, prompt a visit to your physician for further evaluation.
• Observe for signs of pain or discomfort while engaging in intercourse.