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7 to 15 percent of all women are affected
Endometriosis is an enigmatic, usually painful and chronic condition in women whose causes are still largely unknown.
In this case, it comes to the settlement of uterine mucosa-like tissue (endometrium) outside the uterus, for example, ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestine, bladder or peritoneum. This tissue can appear in the form of microscopic spots, sometimes forming large nodules, which at worst lead to ureteral and intestinal stenoses. At the same time endometriosis is often responsible for fallopian tube closures and thus for an unfulfilled desire to have children. According to the German Endometriosis Association e. V. endometriosis is the second most common benign gynecological disease as well as the most common organic cause of unwanted childlessness.
Although around 7 to 15 percent of all women of childbearing age are affected, only a few physicians pay the necessary attention to the complex clinical picture.
It usually takes several years before those affected learn what they are actually suffering from. Inche-Marie Hinrichs, senior gynecologist at the Winsen Hospital and specialist in endometriosis, knows that the sometimes serious problems of her patients are to be taken seriously. "The endometrial implants are influenced by the female hormones, they grow and bleed cyclically, " says Inse-Marie Hinrichs. "Most sufferers therefore suffer from violent spasmodic abdominal pain during menstruation." But also chronic abdominal and back pain, irregular heavy bleeding and bladder and bowel problems may occur. There is also a general malaise and mood swings. Only one third of those affected are free of complaints.
An important prerequisite for the diagnosis is that the patients describe the symptoms as accurately as possible. Subsequently, a normal gynecological examination is carried out. Endometrial implants can be detected in the vagina or cervix. If the abdominal cavity is affected, however, those affected do not come around with a laparoscopy and a tissue sample.
The first good news is that endometrial implants can generally be removed minimally invasively. The treatment of smaller areas can even be done on an outpatient basis. In women who have problems getting pregnant, the patency of the fallopian tubes should also be checked. Extensive abdominal surgery is only necessary in rare cases where the disease leads to severe adhesions to the bowel or bladder. In addition to the surgical removal of endometriosis good results are achieved with hormone treatments. In addition, homeopathic remedies and acupuncture help to relieve the pain. There are also psychotherapeutic offers for women who also suffer from mental illness and their consequences.
The second good news: In 70 percent of cases, endometriosis can be permanently eliminated after a single treatment. Long-term results are achieved by combining surgical and hormonal therapy. Pregnancy is still possible after overcoming endometriosis. If required, fertility centers offer counseling.
