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If you’ve ever experienced painful periods that feel way beyond “normal” cramps, you’re not alone. Endometriosis is a condition that affects millions of people, yet it’s often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and even dismissed. Whether you're newly diagnosed, suspect you might have endometriosis, or just want to learn more, Coda Pharmacy is here to break it down in a way that’s easy to understand. Let’s talk about the symptoms, treatments, and ways to take control of your health
First up, what exactly is endometriosis? Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and sometimes fertility issues. It commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic area.
Symptoms:
Symptoms can vary from person to person but if you are consistently experiencing any of the following symptoms it’s important to speak with your GP.
- Severe menstrual cramps: Pain that goes beyond normal period discomfort.
- Chronic pelvic pain: Pain that lasts even outside of your period.
- Pain during or after sex: Discomfort or deep pain during intercourse.
- Heavy or irregular periods: Excessive bleeding or spotting between cycles.
- Digestive issues & bloating: Constipation, diarrhoea, or painful bloating.
Endometriosis most commonly affects people between the ages of 25 and 40, but symptoms can start as early as the teenage years. It typically develops during the reproductive years and may worsen over time if left untreated. Unfortunately, the exact cause of endometriosis is not understood but certain factors can increase your risk such as genetics and hormonal imbalances.
Diagnosis:
Getting diagnosed with endometriosis can be a process, as its symptoms often overlap with other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pelvic inflammatory disease. Here’s how someone can go about getting a diagnosis:
Track Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of symptoms, including pain, menstrual cycles, and any other unusual signs (like bloating, fatigue, or digestive issues). This will help doctors understand your condition better.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: Make an appointment with a gynecologist or a healthcare provider who specializes in reproductive health. Share your symptoms and medical history in detail.
Pelvic Exam: During a pelvic exam, the doctor will manually check for any abnormal masses or tenderness, but this is only a preliminary step and often not enough to confirm endometriosis.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or MRI- These imaging tests can help identify cysts or other abnormalities, but they can’t always diagnose endometriosis. However, they can help rule out other conditions.
Laparoscopy (Surgical Procedure): The gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis is laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery where a small camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to look directly for endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. It allows the doctor to see the extent of the condition and can sometimes involve removing tissue for biopsy.
Other Tests: Sometimes, blood tests are used to rule out other conditions. Though there is no specific blood test for endometriosis, certain markers may indicate inflammation.
Seek a Second Opinion: Since endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you're unsure about the diagnosis or if symptoms persist despite treatment.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and improve quality of life, so it's important to keep advocating for your health if you're experiencing symptoms.
Coping With Endometriosis:
Coping with endometriosis involves a combination of physical, emotional, and lifestyle strategies. Here are some ways to manage the condition:
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or prescribed medications can help manage pain. For more severe pain, your doctor might recommend hormone therapy or other treatments.
Diet and Nutrition: Some people find relief by following an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids. Avoiding processed foods and caffeine may also help reduce symptoms.
Exercise: Staying active, even with gentle activities like yoga or walking, can help reduce pain, improve mood, and promote overall well-being.
Stress Management: Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress, which may trigger flare-ups.
Support System: Talking to loved ones, joining online or in-person support groups, or seeing a therapist can help with the emotional challenges of living with endometriosis.
Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to your doctor or gynecologist are important for monitoring symptoms and adjusting treatments as needed.
Coping with endometriosis is a personal journey, and finding what works for you is key. It’s important to listen to your body, seek support, and be patient with yourself.
Finding a treatment plan that works for you, whether it’s medication, hormonal therapy, or lifestyle changes, can help manage the pain. It’s important to listen to your body- rest when needed, eat well, and stay active in ways that feel good. Support is key, so don’t hesitate to reach out to others who understand, whether through a support group or talking to friends and family.
Support:
We hope this blog has brought you some comfort and clarity in understanding endometriosis. If you are looking for further support, please visit the links below.
Endometriosis UK Support Group
Coda Pharmacy is here to support you, from offering expert advice about endometriosis to delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this blog or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please feel free to reach out and contact us here.