Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition in which tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, called the endometrium, begins to grow outside the uterus. This abnormal tissue growth can occur on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and other organs in the pelvic region. In rare cases, it can spread beyond the pelvic organs.
Symptoms of endometriosis
❥ Pelvic pain
The most common symptom, especially during menstruation. This pain can be more severe than typical period cramps.
❥ Heavy periods
Women with endometriosis may experience heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods.
❥ Pain during intercourse
Pain during or after sexual intercourse is common.
❥ Painful bowel movements or urination
Particularly during menstruation.
❥ Infertility
Endometriosis can be associated with difficulty in getting pregnant.
❥ Fatigue, Diarrhea, Constipation, Bloating, and Nausea
These symptoms can occur during menstrual periods.
Endometriosis in Kenya
Diagnosis of endometriosis can be challenging because its symptoms overlap with other conditions. Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery, is often required for a definitive diagnosis. While there is no cure, treatment options focus on managing symptoms and may include pain relief medications, hormonal therapies, and surgical procedures to remove endometrial tissue.
Because of these difficulties, diagnosis often takes years, with many women experiencing misdiagnoses and delays in care. For instance, public health institutions in Kenya are more familiar with conditions like fibroids, which results in many women with endometriosis being misdiagnosed or undiagnosed for long periods. This contributes to prolonged suffering, as many women endure severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and even infertility without knowing the true cause.
Social stigma and a lack of awareness further complicate the issue, making it harder for women to seek help. Public health policies also fail to address reproductive health adequately, with Kenya’s National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) not covering many reproductive conditions outside of maternity care.
Treatment
❀ Pain Management
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are often used to relieve pain (remember, that the long-term use of NSAIDs can lead to negative consequences!).
❀ Hormonal Therapy
Medications like birth control pills, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, and progestins can help reduce or eliminate menstruation, slowing the growth of endometrial tissue.
❀ Surgery
In more severe cases, laparoscopic surgery may be used to remove endometrial tissue outside the uterus. In extreme cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be considered, though this is typically a last resort and does not guarantee the end of symptoms.
❀ Lifestyle Changes
Some patients find relief through diet changes, exercise, and stress reduction, though these are complementary approaches.
While treatments can help manage the disease, symptoms can recur, especially if hormone therapy is discontinued or if all endometrial tissue isn't removed during surgery.