What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity, leading to inflammation and scarring. It affects approximately 1 in 9 women and individuals assigned female at birth by the age of 44 in Australia .
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can vary but often include:
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Fertility challenges
- Fatigue
It’s important to recognise that symptom severity does not always correlate with the extent of the condition.
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis may involve:
- Detailed medical history and symptom assessment
- Pelvic examination
- Imaging tests, such as transvaginal ultrasound or MRI
- Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure that allows direct visualisation and possible biopsy of endometrial-like tissue
The 2021 Australian Clinical Practice Guideline emphasises the importance of considering endometriosis in individuals presenting with relevant symptoms and suggests that a presumptive diagnosis can be made based on clinical evaluation, with laparoscopy reserved for uncertain cases or when surgical management is planned .
Management and Treatment
Management strategies are individualised and may include:
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, hormonal therapies to suppress menstruation and reduce lesion growth.
- Surgical options: Laparoscopic surgery to remove or destroy endometrial-like tissue may be considered for those with severe symptoms or fertility concerns.
- Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise and dietary adjustments may alleviate symptoms.
- Psychological support: Counselling or support groups can be beneficial, as chronic pain and fertility issues may impact mental health.
A multidisciplinary approach, involving gynaecologists, pain specialists, physiotherapists, and mental health professionals, is often recommended.
Support and Resources
We’re here to help. If you have any concerns about endometriosis or would like to discuss your symptoms further, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can book an appointment with one of our experienced GPs by calling us on 6373 0125 or clicking the “Book Appointment” button at the top of our website westernobs.com.au.
For further information and assistance here are two great websites:
- Jean Hailes for Women’s Health: Endometriosis Information
- Endometriosis Australia: Support and Resources