Endometriosis

presentation

Endometriosis

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Today we will talk about a condition that affects millions of people but is still often misunderstood. It is particularly important because symptoms often begin during the teenage years.

Aims and objectives

By the end of this session you should be able to: Define what endometriosis is Identify common symptoms Understand how it is diagnosed Describe treatment options Recognise the impact on daily life

Endometriosis is a medical condition where: Tissue of the uterus grows outside the uterus These growths are called: lesions implants endometrial-like tissue

Ovaries Uterus Pelvis

How common is it?

Endometriosis affects approximately: 1 in 10 people who have periods Important points: Symptoms often begin in teenage years Many people are diagnosed in their 20s or 30s

Menstrual cycle reminder

During a normal cycle: uterus lining thickens If pregnancy does not occur The lining sheds during a period

Cause?

Menstrual cycle reminder

This means it can: Build up each cycle Break down during periods Cause inflammation But unlike normal menstrual tissue: The blood cannot leave the body easily This can irritate nearby organs.

Common symptoms include: Very painful periods Pelvic pain between periods Heavy periods Pain during or after sex Pain when using the toilet during periods

Other symptoms include Fatigue Bloating Nausea Lower back pain Difficulty getting pregnant later in life

In teenagers look for: Severe period pain that stops normal activities Missing school because of pain Pain starting before the period begins Digestive symptoms during periods

Emma is a 19-year-old university student who has experienced severe pelvic pain since she was 15. Her symptoms include: severe period pain nausea and fatigue heavy bleeding missing school due to pain. Over the years Emma visited her GP five times. Each time she was told that: period pain is normal she should take over-the-counter painkillers ,stress may be making the pain worse, No scans or specialist referrals were offered. At age 19, Emma collapsed at university due to severe pain and was taken to hospital. After further investigation and a laparoscopy, she was diagnosed with endometriosis. Doctors discovered that the condition had progressed significantly and that earlier treatment could have reduced complications. Emma is taking legal action against her GP.

Cause?

Scientists believe several factors may contribute: Genetics (family history) Hormones Retrograde menstruation

Ultrasound

Symptom discussion

Medical history

MRI

Diagnosis

58% of patients visited their GP more than 10 times before being diagnosed.

This can take time. Why?

Short term

Long term

Heat packs Pain managment Regular exercise Stress management Sleep support Diet adjustments

Pain relief medication Hormonal treatments (such as the contraceptive pill) Hormonal IUD Surgery in some cases(slows down tissue growth) Support fertility if needed

Seek help if...

Period pain stops normal activities

Periods are extremely heavy

Pain when using the toilet during periods or sex

Pelvic pain between periods

Questions?