Endometriosis is a chronic disease that can cause painful pelvic pain during menstruation, ovulation, or intercourse. People may get long-lasting relief by monitoring symptoms, discussing openly with healthcare providers, and trying other treatment methods. Pelvic pain and endometriosis are related in the following ways:
Causes of Pelvic Pain in Endometriosis
Inflammation, scar tissue formation, and involvement of nerves may cause pelvic pain. Endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus responds to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle by thickening and shedding like endometrium in the uterus. Unlike normal uterine tissue, this displaced tissue is inflamed and irritated and cannot exit the body.
Scar tissue, or adhesions, may develop as the body tries to heal the affected area. Organs can stick together, causing sharp pulling pain. In some women, the involvement of nerves may result in pain caused by endometrial implants that irritate or grow close to pelvic nerves. Pain severity does not necessarily correlate with the severity of the disease; women with mild endometriosis may have severe pain, while women with more extensive lesions may have less pain.
Some pelvic pain may be caused by endometriosis, but the pain varies in intensity and presentation. Although over-the-counter pain medication may help, many women suffer from severe menstrual cramps. Some people say they have chronic pelvic pain that lasts all month long and gets worse at ovulation or menstruation.
A common symptom is painful intercourse. Endometrial lesions along or around the walls of the vagina, ovaries, or rectum usually cause this discomfort. Bowel and bladder pain may also occur if the lesions involve the lining of the intestines or bladder. Pain during urination or a bowel movement may be a problem for others, especially during their menstrual period.
Fatigue is often associated with pelvic pain due to this condition, making it difficult to carry out daily activities. This is a chronic condition and can be emotionally distressing, anxiety-provoking, and depressing. Proper treatment and a better quality of life can be achieved with the early recognition of these symptoms.
Diagnosing Endometriosis-Related Pelvic Pain
A healthcare provider may diagnose endometriosis by taking medical history, doing a physical exam, and performing imaging tests. During a pelvic exam, the doctor looks for cysts, tender areas, or other abnormalities in the pelvic region. Ovarian cysts known as endometriomas that contain old blood can be detected using ultrasound imaging, especially transvaginal ultrasound.
MRI provides more detailed images and can identify endometriosis deep within the bowel or bladder. The gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis is laparoscopy. It is a minimally invasive surgery in which doctors can see and biopsy endometrial implants. If lesions are detected, surgeons may remove or destroy them during the procedure to relieve symptoms.
Treatment Options for Pelvic Pain in Endometriosis
The treatment of endometriosis-related pelvic pain is based on the severity of the symptoms, the location of the lesions, and the patient’s preferences. Some women start with medication, while others require surgery. Hormonal therapy includes birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings that regulate menstrual cycles and reduce pain.
Laparoscopic surgery is an option for people with severe pain who don’t respond to medication. The endometrial implants are removed or destroyed by surgeons during the procedure, which helps many women. In extreme cases, the ovary and the hysterectomy may be removed.
Endometriosis: Seeking Support and Long-Term Management
As endometriosis is a chronic disease, long-term management may be required. The right combination of medical care and lifestyle changes may help people with endometriosis-related pelvic pain improve their quality of life. If you think you have pelvic pain from endometriosis, contact a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
