Overview

At ISWARYA HOSPITAL, OMR, Chennai, we offer advanced and personalized care for women living with endometriosis. This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing a range of symptoms from pain to fertility issues. Our team of specialists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating endometriosis with a combination of medical management, surgical intervention, and holistic support.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) develop outside the uterus. These cells often attach to organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the outer surface of the uterus. Unlike the normal endometrium, this tissue outside the uterus has no way to exit the body, leading to irritation, inflammation, and the development of scar tissue.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The symptoms of endometriosis can vary from mild to severe, and may include:

• Chronic pelvic pain: This pain often intensifies during menstrual periods.
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse: Some women experience pain during or after sex.
• Pain during bowel movements or urination: This can be especially noticeable during menstruation.
• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding: Many women with endometriosis report unusually heavy periods or spotting between cycles.
• Difficulty conceiving: Endometriosis may be discovered when a woman seeks treatment for infertility.

Possible Causes

The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown, but there are several theories that may explain its development:

• Menstrual flow disruption: One possible explanation is that menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes, allowing endometrial-like cells to implant outside the uterus.
• Family history: Endometriosis tends to occur in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
• Immune system factors: Some research suggests that immune system disorders may prevent the body from eliminating misplaced endometrial cells.
• Hormonal influences: Estrogen, a key hormone in the menstrual cycle, may promote the growth of endometrial-like tissue in areas outside the uterus.

Diagnosis

At ISWARYA HOSPITAL, diagnosing endometriosis involves a combination of medical history, pelvic exams, and imaging tests. In certain cases, minimally invasive surgery called laparoscopy may be used for both diagnosis and treatment. During a laparoscopy, a small camera is inserted into the abdomen to visually inspect for endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Treatment Options

Endometriosis treatment is personalized based on the severity of the condition, symptoms, and the patient’s reproductive goals. At ISWARYA HOSPITAL, we offer several options for managing and treating endometriosis:

1. Medication for Symptom Relief:
   • Over-the-counter or prescription pain relief can help manage discomfort and inflammation associated with endometriosis.
2. Hormonal Therapy:
   • Hormonal treatments aim to regulate or suppress menstruation to reduce the growth of endometrial-like tissue. Options include:
     • Birth control pills or patches: These can help regulate cycles and alleviate mild symptoms.
     • Hormone-blocking injections: Medications like GnRH agonists may reduce estrogen levels and shrink endometrial growths.
     • Progestin therapy: This hormone can help stop menstruation and prevent further tissue growth.
3. Surgical Intervention:
   • For women experiencing severe pain or fertility challenges, surgery may be an option. Techniques include:
     • Laparoscopic surgery: This minimally invasive procedure involves removing or destroying the endometrial tissue while preserving reproductive organs when possible.
     • Hysterectomy: In severe cases where other treatments have failed, removing the uterus (and possibly the ovaries) may be considered, though this is reserved for women not planning future pregnancies.
4. Fertility Treatment:
   • For women looking to conceive, fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended alongside managing endometriosis symptoms.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery process varies depending on the type of treatment used. For those undergoing medication-based management, relief from symptoms may take several months. Surgical recovery times depend on the procedure but are often faster with minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy. Our team at ISWARYA HOSPITAL provides continuous follow-up care to ensure that symptoms are managed and to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent pelvic pain, abnormal menstrual bleeding, or have difficulty becoming pregnant, it’s important to seek medical advice. Early detection and intervention can greatly improve the management of endometriosis and enhance your overall quality of life.

Why Choose ISWARYA HOSPITAL?

At ISWARYA HOSPITAL, we are dedicated to providing individualized, compassionate care for women with endometriosis. Our team of gynecologists and fertility specialists works closely with each patient to create a tailored treatment plan that addresses both physical symptoms and emotional well-being. We combine cutting-edge medical techniques with a patient-centered approach to help you live a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

Book a Consultation:
If you are experiencing symptoms of endometriosis or have been diagnosed with the condition, schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at ISWARYA HOSPITAL. We’re here to help you explore your treatment options and take control of your health.