Endometriosis characteristics

Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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The main characteristic of endometriosis is painful menstruation, and in severe cases, it can lead to heavy periods and prolonged menstrual cycles. If endometriosis leads to the formation of ovarian chocolate cysts, the rupture of these cysts can cause severe abdominal pain. Moreover, endometriosis can easily lead to pelvic adhesions, which are a common cause of infertility. If the condition is severe, abdominal pain may also occur after the menstrual period has ended. In the case of adenomyosis, the symptoms include an enlarged uterine body, heavy periods, and prolonged menstrual cycles. If the condition is severe, then surgical treatment may be necessary.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Is it easy to get pregnant with endometriosis?

Endometriosis, which has a relatively high incidence among women, refers to the condition where the endometrial tissue is located outside the uterine cavity. This condition can easily lead to infertility. Although endometriosis is a benign disease, it exhibits characteristics similar to those of malignant diseases, primarily manifesting as local infiltration that causes adhesions and can disrupt the function of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. First, it can lead to the presence of chocolate cysts on the ovaries, which can affect the ovulation function of the ovaries. Second, it can sometimes cause adhesions in the fallopian tubes or pelvic adhesions, affecting the egg-pickup function of the fallopian tubes. This prevents sperm and eggs from fertilizing within the fallopian tubes. Even if fertilization occurs, the impaired function of the fallopian tubes may also lead to an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Can endometriosis turn into cancer?

The answer is no. First, let's explain what endometriosis is. Endometriosis is when the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, is found outside of its normal location, including in the muscular layer of the uterus, the ovaries, the pelvic cavity, or the intestines; it can occur in any of these areas. This condition is known as endometriosis. Endometriosis within the uterus is a benign condition, but it can lead to severe painful menstruation and chocolate cysts. If the menstrual pain is very severe, there may be a possibility of needing a hysterectomy in the future. If a chocolate cyst occurs, surgery might also be necessary.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can endometriosis be cured?

The treatment of endometriosis should be determined based on the individual's specific circumstances. Complete cure typically requires the removal of both ovaries. As long as the ovaries are present, there generally is no talk of a complete cure; treatment can only control the condition. It is possible to surgically remove lesions and use medication to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. The specific treatment for endometriosis should be determined based on factors such as age, whether there is a desire for children, and specific symptoms like painful periods and bleeding conditions.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat endometriosis in the pelvic cavity?

When women suffer from pelvic endometriosis and the symptoms are not too severe—for instance, if the pain is relatively mild—they can be clinically observed during menstruation. If dysmenorrhea occurs, oral administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as indomethacin can help alleviate the symptoms. However, some women may experience more severe symptoms and may require pseudopregnancy treatment with drugs, such as oral contraceptives or progestin-based medications. Another approach involves using GnRH analogues, a method known as 'medical oophorectomy.' If symptoms are severe and treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention might be considered. Surgical options include electrocoagulation of endometriotic lesions in the pelvis, sharp or blunt dissection of adhesions, which can also improve the pelvic environment and potentially enhance fertility in women. (Note: Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Chance of pregnancy with endometriosis

When suffering from endometriosis, the likelihood of pregnancy in women decreases, with the chance of getting pregnant naturally being around 50%. The occurrence of endometriosis can lead to extensive adhesions in pelvic tissues and organs, hardening and stiffness of the fallopian tubes, affecting the movement of the fallopian tubes, thereby affecting the transport of eggs and fertilized eggs by the fallopian tubes. Severe adhesions around the fallopian tubes can also affect the release of eggs. Therefore, it is recommended to actively seek treatment for endometriosis before trying to conceive, which can be done through medication or surgical treatment. (The use of medication should be under the guidance of a doctor.)