Endometriosis myths
EVERY year around this time, millions of women and healthcare professionals come together for Endometriosis Awareness Month in March. This often debilitating condition affects about 180 million women worldwide, and is a constant source of physical, emotional and financial stress.
Essentially, endometriosis ensues when the tissues that normally line the womb are found outside the womb. The condition invites inflammation, bleeding and varying degrees of pain.
Unfortunately, as with many medical conditions, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding endometriosis (endo). This is due not only to cultural differences but also because of the complex nature of the condition itself. Let’s try to dispel some of those myths today.
Myth: Endo doesn’t affect teens
Once upon a time, before the advent of laparoscopy, endometriosis used to be diagnosed with open surgery. This was reserved for older women whose pains would not go away. Now with laparoscopy being mainstream, more and more young women are being diagnosed. In fact, we now know that teens whose period pains are not helped with oral contraceptive pills and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs — such as Advil — have a 70 per cent chance of having endometriosis.
Myth: You caused it
Many women think that douching or even having an abortion, in some way contributes to developing endometriosis. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Maybe this misconception lies in confusing endometriosis and endometritis — the latter being linked with abortions.
Myth: Severe period pains are normal
This may be the biggest problem associated with endometriosis. It’s the reason that historically there’s a seven-year delay in diagnosing the condition. Most women are cultured into accepting pains with their periods, and while mild and even moderate pains are considered OK, severe pains should never be taken as “the norm”. As a rule, if your pains interfere with your attendance at school, work, or your social life, seek medical advice.
Myth: Hormonal medications and pregnancy can cure endometriosis
Unfortunately, this is false. Medications used in the treatment of endometriosis work while the patient is taking them, and maybe a little while after they’ve stopped. The same is true for pregnancy. But invariably, endometriosis and its symptoms will return. If you want the removal of the disease, laparoscopic surgery is your best bet.
Myth: A hysterectomy can cure symptoms
Again, this is another old misconception regarding endometriosis. The symptoms are caused by deposits of endometrial tissue outside of the womb. Removing the womb itself won’t get rid of symptoms.
Partial myth: Endometriosis causes infertility by damaging tubes
While endometriosis can affect the tubes, many women with endometriosis and infertility have no tubal involvement. There are other less understood factors in play when talking about endometriosis and infertility. Some theories include endometriosis being toxic to sperm/egg transportation along the tube, and endometriosis even preventing ovulation. On the bright side, the majority of women who have endometriosis are fertile (60-70 per cent), and even those with difficulty getting pregnant eventually conceive without assistance.
Myth: Endometriosis is only a physical problem
While it starts out as a physical condition, the psychological distress it has on patients cannot be emphasised enough. It affects women in the prime of their lives, often impacting their education, ability to maintain relationships, and a healthy social life. Depression and anxiety are not uncommon among women struggling with the disease.
There is hope for those women who suffer from this condition. It can be successfully treated with laparoscopic surgery aided by the support that exists through the B.A.S.E Foundation. Their annual endometriosis march will be held this year on March 25 in Montego Bay. Come out and show your support.
Dr Halsall is a gynaecologist at Island Laparoscopy. To schedule a consultation send e-mail to info@islandlaparoscopy.com or call 455-4527. Facebook page is www.Facebook.com/ilapjamaica.
