Endometriosis I Kōpū whakatupu pūtautau

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and potentially affecting fertility.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Pelvic pain, often associated with menstrual periods
• Pain during or after sex
• Pain with bowel movements or urination, particularly during menstruation
• Excessive bleeding during periods (menorrhagia) or between periods (menometrorrhagia)
• Infertility or difficulty conceiving
• Fatigue, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, and nausea, especially during menstrual periods

When to see a doctor

• If you experience severe or debilitating pain that affects your daily life
• If you have difficulty conceiving and suspect endometriosis
• If over-the-counter pain relievers are no longer effective in managing your pain

Diagnosis

• If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. A doctor may:
• Review your medical history and symptoms in detail
• Perform a pelvic examination to check for abnormalities
• Recommend laboratory tests, and imaging tests such as an ultrasound
• Perform a laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, to view and possibly take a sample of endometrial tissue for confirmation
• Endometriosis is often classified as mild, moderate or severe

Treatment options

Treatment for endometriosis involves a range of approaches, depending on your situation.

Medical treatments:

• Pain relief: NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help with pain management.
• Hormonal therapy: Hormonal treatments, including birth control pills, progestins, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists,can reduce or eliminate pain. Several other new treatment options such as aromatase inhibitors are currently being investigated. 
• Surgical treatments: Laparoscopy to remove or burn endometrial tissue, or more extensive surgery in severe cases, may be recommended.
• Fertility treatments: For women experiencing infertility, options such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be considered.

Self-care options:

• Diet and nutrition: A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains  and avoiding refined sugar and carbohydrates and processed meat,  may help manage symptoms.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce pain and improve overall health.
• Heat therapy: Applying heat through a heating pad or hot water bottle can relieve pelvic pain and cramps.
• Relaxation techniques: Yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress and pain.

Support services

• Endometriosis New Zealand: Offers support groups, educational resources, and advocacy for women with endometriosis. Visit Endometriosis New Zealand for more information.

Conclusion

Endometriosis can significantly impact your life, but various management strategies can help you lead a more comfortable and fulfilling life. Consulting with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and exploring both medical and self-care treatments can make a significant difference. 

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