By Maryam Mukhtar & Asmau Mustapha Bukar, SS 2
Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside the uterus. The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue grows on the ovaries, bowel, and tissues lining the pelvic. It is unusual for endometrial tissue to spread beyond the pelvic but it is possible.
Symptoms of endometriosis
The commonest symptoms are pain and menstrual irregularities. People may experience:
1. Pain in the lower abdomen, lower back, pelvic, or vagina.
2. Pain circumstances can occur during sexual intercourse or while defecating.
3. Menstrual abnormality and having painful menstruation.
Endometriosis can be prevented through having good nutrition which has to do with a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoidance of a large amount of alcohol and caffeine, and also seeking doctors’ advice.
Treatment of endometriosis
1. Medication (hormone)
2. Heat therapy
3. Surgery
4. Medical procedure
i. Burning or freezing a part of the body to remove tissue or stop bleeding
ii. Removal of tissue using radio frequency (RF) waves, focused ultrasound, heat, or cold.
iii. Electrocoagulation: using electric current to seal blood vessel and stop bleeding.
iv. Surgical removal of the lining of the womb (uterus) to reduce heavy menstrual flow.
Specialists in endometriosis
1. Obstetricians and gynaecologists
2. Primary Care Providers (PCPs)
Maryam & Asmau are of IQ Academy, Abuja.
