All You Need to Know About Endometriosis From Pain to Treatment

Endometriosis is a common gynaecological condition that affects millions of women worldwide, including an estimated 25 million women in India. It occurs when the endometrial tissue — which normally lines the inside of the uterus — starts growing outside the uterus. This can lead to a range of painful symptoms and is one of the leading causes of infertility in women.

At Neighbourhood Clinic, we believe that informed women make empowered decisions. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about endometriosis — from symptoms and causes to diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle tips that may help manage your condition better.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when the endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus — often affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and surrounding pelvic organs like the bladder and bowel. During menstruation, this tissue behaves like normal endometrium — it breaks down and bleeds. However, since it has no way to exit the body, it becomes trapped, leading to inflammation, scar tissue (adhesions), and painful lesions.

Types of Endometriosis

1. Superficial Peritoneal Lesions – The most common type, where lesions form on the peritoneum (lining of the pelvis).
2. Endometrioma (Chocolate Cysts) – Fluid-filled cysts that form in the ovaries.
3. Deeply Infiltrating Endometriosis – Endometrial tissue that grows deep under the peritoneum and may affect organs such as the bladder or bowel.

Common Symptoms

• Severe pelvic pain during periods (dysmenorrhea)
• Lower back and abdominal pain
• Pain during or after sex
• Pain during urination or bowel movements
• Heavy menstrual bleeding or spotting between cycles
• Difficulty conceiving
• Fatigue, bloating, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea

Note: Some women with endometriosis may experience no symptoms at all.

How Is It Diagnosed?

At Neighbourhood Clinic, diagnosis is made through a combination of:

• Pelvic exam
• Ultrasound
• MRI
• Laparoscopy (gold standard)
• Biopsy in certain cases

Stages of Endometriosis

Based on laparoscopic findings:

1. Stage I (Minimal) – Few small lesions, no scar tissue
2. Stage II (Mild) – More lesions, still no scar tissue
3. Stage III (Moderate) – Deep implants and scar tissue on ovaries or fallopian tubes
4. Stage IV (Severe) – Multiple lesions, large cysts, dense adhesions

Causes & Risk Factors

While the exact cause is unclear, some contributing factors include:

• Retrograde menstruation
• Genetics
• Immune system disorders
• Hormonal imbalances

Risk factors include:

• Early menstruation
• Short menstrual cycles
• Heavy periods
• Low BMI
• Delayed menopause
• Family history
• Infertility or reproductive tract issues

Complications

• Infertility: Up to 50% of women with infertility may have endometriosis.
• Ovarian cancer: Rare, but risk is slightly elevated.
• Endometriosis-associated adenocarcinoma: A rare cancer linked to a history of the disease.

Treatment Options at Neighbourhood Clinic

Treatment is based on symptom severity and reproductive goals:

. Medications

• Pain Relief: NSAIDs like ibuprofen
• Hormonal Therapies:
  • Birth control pills or patches
  • GnRH agonists and antagonists
  • Progestin therapy (IUDs, injections, implants)
  • Aromatase inhibitors

2. Surgery

• Conservative Surgery: Removes lesions while preserving uterus/ovaries
• Hysterectomy: For severe cases or when other treatments fail.

3. Fertility Treatment

• Assisted reproductive techniques for women struggling to conceive

Lifestyle Support for Managing Endometriosis

At Neighbourhood Clinic, we encourage a holistic approach:

Eat Right

• Limit trans fats and processed foods
• Reduce gluten and high-FODMAP foods
• Increase intake of omega-3-rich foods (fish, walnuts, flaxseeds)

Exercise Regularly

• Helps reduce inflammation and stress
• Boosts mood and relieves pelvic tension

Takeaway from Neighbourhood Clinic

Endometriosis is a manageable condition. Early diagnosis, timely treatment, and lifestyle support can significantly improve your quality of life and reproductive health.

If you suspect symptoms or are struggling with fertility, book an appointment at Neighbourhood Clinic today. Our gynaecology specialists provide personalized care plans tailored to your unique health needs.