Medical Super Clinic takes pride in being one of the nation’s top 22 clinics renowned for providing exceptional, multidisciplinary care and services for patients diagnosed with endometriosis and pelvic pain.
Endometriosis is a condition that affects at least one in nine Australian women. Its impact on the daily lives of those affected can be extensive and debilitating. It takes an average of seven years for those with symptoms to receive a diagnosis, which can have a profound negative impact on their health and well-being.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can attach to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other areas within the pelvic cavity. These growths can cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation, affecting a woman’s quality of life and fertility.
Causes of Endometriosis
The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but several theories exist:
- Retrograde Menstruation: Menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity, allowing endometrial cells to implant and grow outside the uterus.
- Genetic Factors: A family history of endometriosis can increase the risk, suggesting a genetic link.
- Immune System Disorders: Problems with the immune system may prevent the body from recognizing and destroying endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Estrogen promotes the growth of endometrial tissue, which may contribute to the condition.
- Surgical Scars: Endometrial cells may attach to surgical incisions after procedures such as a C-section or hysterectomy.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
Symptoms of endometriosis vary in severity and can include:
- Pelvic Pain: Often associated with menstruation, but can occur at other times and can be severe.
- Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): Intense menstrual cramps that may begin before and extend beyond the menstrual period.
- Pain During Intercourse: Pain during or after sex, often described as deep and persistent.
- Pain with Bowel Movements or Urination: Especially during menstrual periods.
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Including heavy periods (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods.
- Infertility: Endometriosis is commonly found in women experiencing infertility.
- Fatigue, Diarrhea, Constipation, Bloating, and Nausea: Especially during menstrual periods.
Diagnosis of Endometriosis
Diagnosing endometriosis involves several steps, as symptoms can be similar to other conditions:
- Medical History Review: Discussing symptoms, menstrual cycles, and any relevant medical history.
- Pelvic Exam: A physical examination to check for abnormalities such as cysts or scars.
- Ultrasound: Imaging tests using sound waves to create pictures of the reproductive organs, which can help identify cysts associated with endometriosis.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): A detailed imaging technique that helps identify the extent and location of endometriosis.
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery where a camera is inserted into the pelvic cavity to directly visualize and potentially biopsy endometrial tissue. This is the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience symptoms of endometriosis, such as severe pelvic pain, painful periods, or difficulty becoming pregnant, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Why Choose Us
At Medical Super Clinic, we aim to promote early access to multidisciplinary intervention, care, and treatment to reduce diagnostic delays, thereby contributing to better patient outcomes. Our commitment goes beyond direct patient care. We aim to expand public knowledge of endometriosis and pelvic pain, enhance professional expertise in this area, and streamline access to relevant information and care pathways.
Endometriosis can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, but with early diagnosis and appropriate management, symptoms can be effectively controlled. Book an appointment with us today through the form below.
Your initial consultation is bulk-billed and does not require a referral.
