Menstrual pain is often considered normal. However, if the pain is so severe that it interferes with daily activities, work, or even requires complete bed rest, it should not be ignored. One cause could be endometriosis .
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue resembling the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found around the reproductive organs and pelvic area and undergoes changes with the menstrual cycle. This condition can cause inflammation and pain.
When Menstrual Pain Is No Longer Just Ordinary Pain
Not all menstrual pain indicates a medical condition. However, there are some symptoms worth paying attention to, especially if they recur and increasingly interfere with daily activities.
Some of the symptoms that endometriosis sufferers may experience include:
- Menstrual pain that is severe or gets worse over time
- Pelvic pain that lasts outside of the menstrual period
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Pain during bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation
- Menstruation that is heavier or lasts longer
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Symptoms can vary from person to person. In fact, the level of pain experienced doesn't always reflect the extent of endometriosis.
Why is Endometriosis Often Discovered Too Late?
One of the challenges in recognizing endometriosis is the assumption that menstrual pain is something to be endured.
However, pain that is so severe that it interferes with daily activities is not something that should be considered normal. Many women take a long time to receive a diagnosis because their symptoms are often mistaken for normal menstrual cramps.
Furthermore, endometriosis symptoms can mimic other conditions that also cause pelvic pain. This is why an examination by an obstetrician-gynecologist is necessary to determine the underlying cause.
Can Endometriosis Affect Fertility?
Endometriosis isn't just associated with pain. In some women, this condition can also be associated with difficulty conceiving.
Inflammation and changes in the tissue surrounding the reproductive organs can affect the normal functioning of the reproductive system. However, this does not mean that women with endometriosis cannot conceive.
The chances of pregnancy will be affected by various factors, including age, severity of endometriosis, condition of the reproductive organs, and other fertility factors.
How Do Doctors Diagnose and Treat It?
Diagnosis begins with an understanding of your symptoms, menstrual patterns, and medical history, as well as a physical examination if necessary. The doctor may also recommend additional tests, such as an ultrasound, to help assess the condition of the reproductive organs.
Treatment is then tailored to each patient's individual condition. Options may include pain relief medication, hormonal therapy, and even surgery in certain situations.
The goal of treatment is not only to reduce pain, but also to consider the patient's condition and needs, including if they are planning a pregnancy.
Don't assume all menstrual pain is normal.
Recurrent menstrual pain that interferes with daily activities should not be ignored. The sooner the cause is identified, the sooner appropriate treatment can be provided.
Consult Your Reproductive Health with EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital
Managing endometriosis requires tailored treatment tailored to each patient's condition and needs. This includes evaluating symptoms, conducting diagnostic tests, and selecting appropriate therapies, all of which can be discussed with a doctor.
Immediately visit EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital and consult an Obstetrician-Gynecologist about your menstrual pain or recurring pelvic pain to get the right examination and treatment.
This article was written by Dr. Forry Fortuna Djajasasmita, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).