How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 24, 2024
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Endometriosis is a condition where the uterine lining grows outside of the uterine cavity, commonly seen in the pelvic region, particularly above the ovaries. Therefore, ultrasound (B-ultrasound) examinations are primarily used for accuracy. The ultrasound may reveal a large mass on one side of the fallopian tubes or ovaries, with uneven content inside. During the ultrasound, it can also be observed that the capsule of the mass is intact. Additionally, during a gynecological examination, the doctor may also feel a mass in the adnexa.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Consequences of Endometriosis

The consequences of endometriosis primarily include abnormal menstruation and infertility, with about 50% of those affected experiencing infertility. The reasons for this stem from the abnormal pelvic structures caused by endometriosis, as well as extensive adhesions of the fallopian tubes and ovaries, and abnormal motility of the fallopian tubes, all of which lead to reduced functions in transporting sperm and eggs. Furthermore, changes in the microenvironment within the pelvis also lead to infertility. Abnormal menstruation is mainly characterized by an increased amount of menstrual flow and prolonged menstrual periods, which can easily lead to anemia in patients.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What tests are done for endometriosis?

For patients with endometriosis, it is recommended that you undergo a gynecological ultrasound examination to observe the condition of the ectopic endometrial tissue in the pelvic cavity, whether it is present on the uterus or ovaries, and whether it has grown on the abdominal wall. Therefore, it is advised to have a gynecological ultrasound examination and a gynecological exam. Patients with endometriosis can also have a blood test for tumor markers. If you wish to undergo additional tests, you can also have a cervical cancer screening, which is also possible. The main recommendations are the first three: the gynecological exam, gynecological ultrasound, and tumor marker tests. These examinations are advisable. If the endometriosis is very severe and the pain is quite intense, treatment may be necessary.

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Written by Hou Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does endometriosis require the removal of the uterus?

Endometrial displacement, depending on the specific location of the displacement, calls for different treatments. When the endometrial glands and stroma invade the myometrium, it is called adenomyosis. Treatment is based on the patient's symptoms, age, and fertility requirements. If there are fertility requirements, or the patient is near menopause, medicinal treatment can be tried to alleviate symptoms. For younger patients with adenomyosis who have reproductive needs, focal excision surgery can be considered. For patients with severe symptoms, who either have no reproductive needs or for whom medicinal treatment is ineffective, a total hysterectomy may be considered.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Causes of Infertility in Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease that severely troubles women's daily lives. Besides causing painful menstruation, endometriosis is also a common cause of infertility. The reasons for infertility caused by endometriosis include the following aspects: First, endometriosis often leads to the formation of chocolate cysts on the ovaries, which can affect ovarian function and cause impaired ovarian function. Second, endometriosis can sometimes affect the function of the fallopian tubes, causing adhesions in the fallopian tubes. This may result in difficulties in egg pickup, preventing the sperm and egg from meeting and forming a fertilized egg in the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How is endometriosis treated?

The treatment methods for endometriosis depend on the patient's age, the severity of symptoms, and whether they have childbearing requirements. For younger patients who wish to have children, conservative treatment methods are preferable, followed by ovulation induction therapy. For older patients with more severe symptoms, surgical treatment may be considered. If the patient does not have immediate childbearing requirements, a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) can be placed in the uterus. This device releases progesterone and provides excellent treatment results for endometriosis. If the symptoms of endometriosis are severe, manifesting in pronounced dysmenorrhea, excessive menstrual bleeding, or ovarian cysts, then surgical treatment should be considered.