Endometriosis and fibroids are gynaecological conditions that affect the uterus. Fibroids are tumours that grow from the walls of the uterus whereas endometriosis is the abnormal growth of endometrium outside the uterus. Though these are two different conditions, they often exhibit similar symptoms like pelvic pain, and heavy menstrual bleeding. In this guide, the best female gynecologist in Newtown sheds light on these two conditions.
Symptoms
- Fibroids: Women with fibroids are likely to experience symptoms like menstrual clots, painful cramps, pelvic pain, frequent urination, swollen abdomen, fertility challenges, heavy blood flow during periods, and pain during intercourse.
- Endometriosis: The symptoms of endometriosis include experiencing infertility issues, heavy menstrual bleeding, painful bowel movements and chronic pelvic pain.
Causes
- Fibroids: Genetics could be a contributing factor, with a higher likelihood of developing fibroids if you have a family history of the condition. Hormonal changes may also be another reason. Oestrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for regenerating the uterine lining during the menstrual cycle, might potentially stimulate the growth of fibroids.
- Endometriosis: The development of endometriosis is influenced by factors such as genetics and retrograde menstruation (menstrual blood flows backwards into the fallopian tubes as well as the pelvic cavity instead of exiting through the vagina) and environmental toxins.
Diagnosis
Both fibroids and endometriosis are typically diagnosed by gynecologists using similar diagnostic methods. These tools include pelvic examinations and ultrasounds for a proper diagnosis. It’s worth noting that women can have both fibroids and endometriosis concurrently.
Treatment
- Fibroids: The best lady gynecologist in Newtown recommends medical management to reduce the size of fibroids. Surgically, the fibroids can be removed by laparoscopic myomectomy or hysterectomy.
- Endometriosis: The management of endometriosis involves a range of treatments tailored to the individual’s specific condition and preferences. These approaches include the use of supplemental hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills to help control the growth of endometrial tissue. In more severe cases, medical professionals may recommend gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists to address the condition.
In cases that don’t respond well to medication, the best gynecologist in Newtown suggests a laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, to remove out-of-place endometrial tissue. In rare and extreme instances, a total hysterectomy may be considered as a last resort.
Both endometriosis and fibroids have distressing symptoms, but with appropriate treatment, it’s possible to alleviate discomfort and effectively prevent them from worsening. While these conditions can impact fertility, the best gynecologist in Newtown assures that with the right treatment conceiving and having children is still possible.