For many ladies, having their menses is often a dreaded time of the month thanks to the discomfort it brings. However, for some, their period problems tend to be more severe such that it affects their daily life.
Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition where cells from the endometrium (tissue lining the uterus) are found outside the uterus and in other areas like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and ovarian ligaments. The tissue begins to grow and thicken and releases blood and inflammatory chemicals during menstruation, which usually results in painful menses.
About 10% of the female population have endometriosis. In the sub-fertile population, it could go up as high as 40% to 50%. In fact, these numbers may be even higher since affected women might not be aware and even if they do experience symptoms, many tend to brush them aside thinking that it is normal.
Symptoms of Endometriosis
A common symptom of endometriosis is severe pain during menstruation. The endometrial tissue growing outside of the uterus tends to bleed during menses, which brings about the release of certain chemicals that are inflammatory, leading to pain and other problems. As a guide to differentiate between normal menstrual cramps and pain caused by endometriosis, the pain should not affect your day-to-day functions. If you are skipping social activities or needing time away from work because of painful periods, it is essential to seek medical help.
Other symptoms include:
Heavy periods
Cold sweat, nausea or near faint spells
Sensation of urge to pass motion during menses
Painful urination
Painful intercourse
Lower back pain
Bloating and abdominal swelling
Chronic fatigue
Infertility
When should I Seek Help and Who can I Seek Help From?
Seek help from a gynaecologist, particularly one who is an endometriosis specialist like Dr Anupriya, as early as possible once these symptoms are experienced.
Early diagnosis will allow for a wider range of treatment and management options, rather than at a later stage where treatment options are limited, often requiring surgery.
Learn more about
Dr Anupriya
Having over 25 years of experience, Dr Anupriya is a fertility specialist with a unique holistic fertility management approach to ensure the best outcomes.
She is one of the most sought-after IVF practitioners in Singapore, having helped multiple women with complex fertility issues, like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), fibroids and endometriosis, achieve their dream of motherhood.
Seek Care From Dr Anupriya at Orchard
Dr Anupriya's Place of Practice
Tel: +65 6011 1535
WhatsApp: +65 9017 6204
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