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New Delhi, India – March 28, 2025 – On World Endometriosis Day, observed annually on March 28th, healthcare professionals are raising awareness about a chronic condition affecting millions of women globally, including a significant population in India. Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causes a range of debilitating symptoms.
Dr. Shilpa Singhal, a renowned Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist at Birla Fertility and IVF, Dwarka, shed light on the intricacies of this condition, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and effective management.
Understanding Endometriosis
“Endometriosis occurs when the endometrium, the tissue lining the uterus, grows in other areas like the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, or intestines,” explained Dr. Singhal. “This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes, leading to cyclical pain and other complications.”
Recognizing the Symptoms
Common symptoms include painful periods (dysmenorrhea), painful intercourse (dyspareunia), and painful bowel movements (dyschezia). However, Dr. Singhal noted that symptom severity varies greatly among individuals. “While many experience significant pain, approximately 10% of women, and up to 30% of infertile women, may be asymptomatic,” she added. In these cases, diagnosis often occurs incidentally through pelvic ultrasounds revealing ovarian endometriotic cysts or during laparoscopic procedures.
Unraveling the Causes
The exact cause of endometriosis remains elusive. “We understand that several factors contribute to the risk, including family history, menstrual abnormalities, uterine anomalies, and body mass index,” Dr. Singhal stated. “Additionally, higher estrogen levels appear to increase susceptibility.”
Treatment and Management
Prevention strategies are limited due to the unknown cause. “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet may help reduce the risk,” advised Dr. Singhal. She stressed the importance of seeking medical attention for symptoms like painful periods or intercourse.
For those diagnosed with endometriosis, proactive planning is crucial. “Early diagnosis allows women to make informed decisions about family planning,” Dr. Singhal said. “Options like embryo or oocyte freezing can preserve fertility.” In cases of severe pain or large endometriotic cysts, surgical intervention may be necessary. However, the recurrence rate remains a concern.
Awareness and Support
World Endometriosis Day serves as a critical platform to educate the public and support those affected by this condition. Increased awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis, better management, and improved quality of life for women with endometriosis.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.(https://www.herzindagi.com/health/endometriosis-day-causes-symptoms-treatments-article-1022903)
