Endometriosis is a painful condition affecting around 10% of women of reproductive age. It occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus is found outside the uterus, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs in the pelvis. Some women may experience no symptoms, but for others, endometriosis can cause severe and disabling pain, heavy and irregular periods, infertility, and fatigue.
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown, but current treatment options aim to reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent the progression of the condition. Treatments for endometriosis may involve medications and/or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's individual needs.
Medication is used to reduce the pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis. Common medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal birth control pills.
NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation, while hormonal birth control pills can reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and regulate the menstrual cycle. In some cases, hormones such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists may be used to reduce the production of estrogen, which can help reduce the severity of endometriosis.
Surgery is often used to both diagnose and treat endometriosis. Laparoscopic surgery is the most common type of surgery used to remove endometrial implants, relieve pain, and restore fertility. During laparoscopy, a surgeon will make multiple small incisions in the abdomen and use a thin camera to visualize the pelvic organs and remove any endometrial implants.