Smear Tests & Endometriosis

“Endometriosis is an often painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus (the endometrium), grows outside your uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes & the tissue lining your pelvis. Rarely, endometrial-like tissue may be found beyond the area where pelvic organs are located” [1].

Pain Levels

“The severity of your pain may not be a reliable indicator of the extent of your condition. You could have mild endometriosis with severe pain, or you could have advanced endometriosis with little or no pain” [1]

Like many other conditions, the pain generated by endometriosis, varies from person to person. Extreme pain is however, a reality for a percentage of sufferers, particularly during menses [1]. To that end, if you are experiencing any symptoms (see below) which could indicate endometriosis, then consulting an experienced Pain Specialist (either in-person, or online), is the best way forward. This will ensure that you are given an accurate diagnosis; moreover, you will be given a holistic Personalised Treatment Plan. – This protocol may be multi-faceted, and included both conventional and the latest cutting-edge treatments.

Putting a Spotlight on Common Endometriosis Signs & Symptoms

•Pain in the pelvis is the primary symptom of endometriosis, & this pain is frequently linked with menses
•Painful periods. Pelvic cramping & pain might start prior to, & continue several days into a menstrual period. You may also experience abdominal & lower back pain
•Pain during sexual intercourse
•Pain when urinating or having bowel movements (particularly during menses)
•Excessive bleeding (both during and in-between periods)
•Inability to conceive
•Nausea, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or fatigue, (particularly during menses) [1]

With this condition, endometrial-like tissue works in the same manner as normal endometrial tissue would — it thickens, breaks down and bleeds during every menstrual cycle. However, the issue here is that, this endometrial-like tissue becomes trapped, because there is no route for it to exit the body. Moreover, if the ovaries are involved in this condition, then endometriomas (cists) can form. If this happens, then the encompassing tissue can get irritated, and ultimately, adhesions and scar tissue are generated. Note: in this case, the adhesions refer to bands of fibrous tissue which can make organs and pelvic tissue stick together, potentially causing serious issues [1].

Reference

[1]. Mayo Clinic (2018). “Endometriosis.”
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656