Pain during menstruation, an irregular cycle, and a constant feeling of fatigue – many women are used to thinking this is “normal.” But if the discomfort repeats every month and relief never comes, an underlying condition may be hiding behind it – uterine endometriosis.
Among gynecological conditions, endometriosis holds one of the leading positions. It often mimics typical menstrual pain, which is why women seek medical help only when the disease begins to seriously interfere with their usual daily life.
What uterine endometriosis is in women – let’s look in more detail.
What Uterine Endometriosis Is in Women
Uterine endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological disorders in which the cells of the inner uterine lining (the endometrium) begin to grow where they should not – within the muscular wall of the uterus or beyond it. These cells remain sensitive to hormonal fluctuations and behave just like normal endometrial tissue during menstruation: they swell, bleed, and trigger inflammation and pain. Over time, these lesions cause chronic pelvic pain, adhesions, menstrual irregularities, and difficulties with conception. The disease progresses slowly – which is why many women may not suspect it for years, attributing the discomfort to “cycle features.”
Internal uterine endometriosis (adenomyosis) is more common among women of reproductive age, especially after childbirth or abortion. The condition often recurs: after temporary relief, symptoms may return if the lesions were not completely removed.
Can Uterine Endometriosis Be Cured?
Yes, modern diagnostic and treatment methods make it possible to effectively control and eliminate endometriosis lesions. The most important factor is seeking medical help in a timely manner and not delaying the examination if symptoms repeat month after month.
Why Endometriosis Occurs: Causes and Factors
Endometriosis does not appear suddenly – its development is preceded by a combination of several factors. Hormonal fluctuations, inflammation, and weakened immunity create conditions in which endometrial cells begin to behave atypically and grow deeper into the uterine tissues.
Hormonal Disorders
The key role in the development of endometriosis is played by hormonal imbalance – when estrogen levels are elevated, endometrial cells begin to behave atypically and may penetrate the muscular layer of the uterus. Menstrual irregularities, stress, and chronic fatigue intensify these processes.
Inflammation and Mechanical Damage
Among the common prerequisites of the disease are inflammatory processes, uterine surgeries, childbirth, or abortions. Damage to the inner lining may create conditions for the “migration” of endometrial cells deeper into the tissues, where they continue to grow and respond to hormonal cycles.
Immune and Genetic Factors
In some women, endometriosis develops against the background of weakened immunity, when the body loses its ability to control abnormal cellular growth. Hereditary predisposition also plays a role – if a mother or sister has been diagnosed with endometriosis, the risk of developing the condition increases.
Why Women of Reproductive Age Are Affected More Often
Internal uterine endometriosis (adenomyosis) is especially common among women of reproductive age. This is explained by active hormonal fluctuations and physiological changes of the endometrium during this period. Without treatment, the disease may progress and develop into deeper forms.
How Endometriosis Manifests: Symptoms That May Indicate the Condition
Uterine endometriosis often develops unnoticed. The early signs seem insignificant, and many women tolerate discomfort for years, thinking that “everyone has it this way.” But recurring pain and cycle irregularities are the first signals of the disease.
Menstrual and Intermenstrual Pain – When It Is No Longer Normal
Pain is the main symptom of endometriosis. It may intensify several days before menstruation and persist after it ends. Over time, the pain becomes constant, transitioning from cyclical to chronic.
Heavy or, on the Contrary, Very Light Periods, Delays, Discharge
Changes in menstrual patterns are a common manifestation of the disease. Periods may become heavy and prolonged or, conversely, rare and painful. Dark or brown discharge may appear before or after the cycle, indicating internal inflammation.
How Endometriosis Pain Feels and How It Differs from Usual Cramps
Pain caused by endometriosis has its own characteristics. Unlike typical menstrual cramps, it does not go away after taking analgesics and often worsens during physical activity or sexual intercourse. Women describe it in different ways:
- a pulling pain in the lower abdomen that intensifies during menstruation;
- pain radiating to the lower back, sacrum, or rectum;
- a sensation of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area;
- pain during or after sexual intercourse;
- discomfort during defecation on menstruation days.
Such pain gradually affects the quality of life – disrupting sleep, productivity, and intimate relationships. If unpleasant sensations repeat cycle after cycle, it is important not to delay consulting a gynecologist and schedule a medical examination.
Diagnosis of Uterine Endometriosis
The earlier endometriosis is detected, the easier it is to treat. The challenge is that the condition often remains unnoticed for a long time because its symptoms may resemble other gynecological disorders. This is why regular pain or cycle disturbances require a comprehensive examination.
Gynecological Examination and Ultrasound
The diagnostic process begins with a consultation and physical examination. At this stage, the gynecologist may already suspect endometriosis based on the type of pain, cervical appearance, and uterine size. Pelvic ultrasound helps assess the uterine wall and identify areas suspicious for adenomyosis, although it does not always allow a definitive diagnosis.
Hysteroscopy – a Precise Diagnostic Method
To reliably confirm endometriosis, hysteroscopy is used – a minimally invasive procedure in which a thin optical instrument is inserted into the uterine cavity. It allows direct visualization of the endometrium, assessment of lesion depth, and, if needed, immediate therapeutic intervention.
Colonoscopy – to Rule Out Intestinal Involvement
In complex cases where intestinal involvement is suspected or the patient reports rectal pain, constipation, or discomfort during bowel movements, colonoscopy may be recommended. It helps rule out deep infiltrating endometriosis affecting the bowel and differentiate it from gastrointestinal disorders.
Laparoscopy – a Method of Accurate Visualization
When non-invasive methods are insufficient, laparoscopy provides a detailed view of pelvic organs. During the procedure, the surgeon examines the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and surrounding tissues, identifying hidden lesions and assessing their depth. It is the most accurate diagnostic method for widespread endometriosis.
Laboratory Tests and Additional Studies
To assess overall health, the doctor may prescribe blood tests and hormonal evaluations. These help clarify the cause of cycle disturbances and determine the appropriate treatment approach. The full diagnostic plan is tailored individually after consultation.
Modern Methods of Treating Endometriosis
The approach to treating endometriosis is always individualized. The doctor considers the patient’s age, the extent of the lesions, and reproductive plans. The main goal of therapy is to relieve pain, restore a normal cycle, and prevent disease recurrence.
Medication Therapy
In the early stages, medications that regulate hormonal balance and reduce the activity of endometrial lesions are used. This approach may relieve symptoms but does not always eliminate the cause of the disease. After discontinuing medication, pain and cycle irregularities often return.
How Uterine Endometriosis Is Treated Without Hormones
If hormonal therapy is not tolerated or while preparing for surgical treatment, anti-inflammatory and symptomatic medications may be used. They reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being but do not prevent the growth of lesions.
Surgical Treatment – Precision and Minimal Trauma
Laparoscopy is considered the optimal method for treating endometriosis. Through small incisions, the surgeon removes the lesions under direct visual control while preserving healthy tissue. This approach allows the underlying cause of the disease to be eliminated and significantly reduces the risk of recurrence.
In some cases, treatment may be complemented by hysteroscopy – an endoscopic method that allows examination of the uterine cavity from the inside and removal of abnormal endometrial areas. Hysteroscopy enables highly precise removal of internal lesions without incisions and with minimal recovery time.
At New Life Clinic, laparoscopic and hysteroscopic procedures are performed using advanced equipment, ensuring accuracy, minimal tissue trauma, and fast recovery. The final surgical approach is determined individually by the physician after a comprehensive evaluation.
What Happens If Endometriosis Is Not Treated
Endometriosis is not a condition that resolves on its own. Without treatment, the pathological lesions continue to grow, involving neighboring pelvic organs. The longer medical care is delayed, the higher the risk of complications and the more difficult it becomes to restore normal uterine function.
Disease Progression
In the early stages, endometriosis is limited to the inner uterine layer, but over time, endometrial cells may grow deeper – into the muscular wall and even beyond the organ. This leads to adhesions, uterine cavity deformation, and chronic pain that responds poorly to treatment.
Impaired Reproductive Function
Endometrial overgrowth complicates embryo implantation and may cause infertility. Even when pregnancy occurs, the risk of complications increases – miscarriage, preterm birth, chronic inflammation. Timely treatment helps preserve reproductive health and increase the chances of successful conception.
Impact on Quality of Life
Chronic pain, fatigue, an unstable cycle, and constant discomfort affect emotional well-being. A woman is forced to change her daily routine, reduce activity, and avoid sexual intimacy. Over time, this leads to stress, anxiety, and a decline in overall well-being.
Why It Is Important Not to Delay Treatment
Even with mild symptoms, endometriosis requires monitoring. The earlier therapy begins, the higher the likelihood of complete recovery. Modern diagnostic methods and gentle surgical technologies allow the disease to be treated without long rehabilitation while maintaining quality of life.
Endometriosis of the Uterus and Pregnancy
Endometriosis is often the cause of difficulties with conception, but it is not a sentence. Modern treatment methods make it possible to restore reproductive function and increase the likelihood of pregnancy. The main thing is to undergo timely examination and eliminate the lesions.
How Endometriosis Affects the Ability to Conceive
The overgrowth of endometrial tissue inside and outside the uterus interferes with normal embryo implantation. Ovulation becomes disrupted, hormone levels change, and the quality of the endometrium decreases, making conception difficult. Sometimes a woman tries to conceive for years without success, unaware that the cause is hidden endometriosis.
Pregnancy with Endometriosis Is Possible
After treatment, the chances of natural conception increase significantly. Laparoscopic removal of endometriosis lesions restores the anatomy of the pelvic organs, reduces inflammation, and eliminates adhesions. Many women become pregnant within the first few months after surgery.
Endometriosis During Pregnancy
If the disease is diagnosed during pregnancy, the doctor monitors the condition of the uterus and controls hormone levels. In most cases, endometriosis does not interfere with carrying the pregnancy but requires more careful observation, especially in the early stages.
Prevention of Recurrence After Childbirth
After childbirth, hormonal changes often lead to temporary remission. However, symptoms may return after several months. Therefore, it is important to undergo preventive check-ups and consult a doctor promptly if the first signs of pain or cycle irregularities appear.
Lifestyle Recommendations for Endometriosis
Endometriosis requires not only treatment but also attentive self-care. A properly selected lifestyle helps reduce symptoms, prolong remission, and improve overall well-being.
Physical Activity
Moderate physical activity is beneficial – it improves blood circulation and reduces stress levels. Calm walks, swimming, and yoga are suitable. Intense workouts and heavy lifting should be avoided, especially during menstruation.
Nutrition and Habits
The diet should be balanced and rich in iron, vitamins B and E, and dietary fiber. It is advisable to limit coffee, alcohol, spicy foods, and products high in sugar. Fish, vegetables, and whole-grain foods are recommended.
Emotional Well-Being
Chronic pain and hormonal fluctuations may cause irritability and fatigue. It is important to maintain emotional balance, find time for rest, sleep, and communication. If necessary, a psychologist can provide support – emotional stability contributes to overall recovery.
Regular Medical Check-Ups
Even with good well-being, endometriosis requires periodic monitoring. Routine examinations help detect possible changes in time and adjust treatment if needed. This is the best way to maintain a stable condition and prevent recurrence.
When You Should See a Doctor
If you recognize these symptoms in yourself – do not delay the visit. Endometriosis cannot be diagnosed independently: only a gynecologist can accurately determine the cause of the pain and prescribe proper treatment.
At New Life Clinic, specialists who work with endometriosis every day perform diagnostics and treatment using hysteroscopy and laparoscopy – gentle, minimally traumatic methods that help eliminate the problem and return a comfortable quality of life.