March is the month of endometriosis, a disease that afflicts millions of patients in the world and that must be treated properly to avoid inconveniences in the quality of life and fertility of women.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic disease that consists of the appearance of endometrial tissue in any anatomical place different from its natural location, which is the internal part of the uterus (endometrium). This endometrial tissue can be implanted anywhere in the human body , however, its appearance is more frequent in the uterine tubes, ovaries, vagina, rectum and peritoneum. (Learn more about treatments and consultations for endometriosis)
What are its most important symptoms?
- Severe pelvic pain.
- Menstrual periods with severe pain.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining a pregnancy.
Its exact cause is not known, however, it is believed to be caused by genetic and hereditary factors. It is also believed that the retrograde flow of menstrual bleeding, that is, the material that should be expelled through the vaginal canal, returns through the fallopian tubes and reaches the abdominal cavity and the internal pelvic organs.
How many women are affected by endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs mainly in young women who are in the reproductive stage and can affect 10% to 15% of women in this age range. Also, we can also find it in about half of women who have difficulty achieving pregnancy spontaneously.
Can endometriosis affect infertility?
Statistics say that the percentage of women with endometriosis who have infertility problems is between 30% and 50%. There are several reasons why endometriosis can affect a woman’s fertile capacity. On the one hand, the possibility of implantation of the embryo is reduced . In addition, if endometriosis involves the fallopian tubes, fertilization of the oocyte is difficult.
Can women with endometriosis become mothers?
Yes. First, the severity of the disease and the involvement of the organs affected by it must be known. This is diagnosed through a laparoscopy, where the doctor can analyze the extent of the endometriosis and in turn treat the lesions found during the procedure.
Depending on the severity of the disease, a woman can achieve pregnancy through simple treatments such as stimulation of the ovaries to achieve ovulation to more complex treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization.
If you need more information about this disease, consult with our specialists in Bogotá, Medellín, Rionegro, Pereira and Cartagena.
