Endometriosis: What is it?
👉 Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that affects approximately 1 in 10 women in the world, which represents approximately 2.5 million women in France. This condition, which is still too often ignored or misunderstood, can have a profound impact on the quality of life of sufferers, causing severe menstrual pain in particular. Let's find out together what endometriosis is, how it manifests itself, and what options are available for managing this disease.
What is endometriosis?
🧐 The endometrium is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus. During the menstrual cycle, this endometrium thickens in preparation for a possible pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, this tissue disintegrates and is evacuated in the form of menstrual bleeding. However, in some women, some of this tissue migrates outside the uterus, ending up in other parts of the abdomen. This is where endometriosis originates.
When this endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, it can attach itself to neighboring organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder or even intestines. Unlike in the uterus, this displaced tissue is not evacuated during menstruation, leading to chronic inflammation, lesions, adhesions (scar tissue that can glue organs together) and sometimes ovarian cysts. These abnormalities can cause intense pain and other debilitating symptoms.
Symptoms of endometriosis
🥴 The symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person, both in terms of type and intensity. For some, the pain may be mild, while for others it may be so intense that it severely impacts their quality of life. Common symptoms include:
1. Severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
Pain during menstruation is often more intense than the usual menstrual cramps. These pains may start a few days before the period and persist for several days after it begins.
2. Chronic pelvic pain
Pain can also occur outside menstruation periods. They often occur in the pelvic region, but can also extend to the abdomen and lumbar region.
3. Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
Pain during or after intercourse is another frequent symptom of endometriosis. This can have a significant impact on the intimate life of those affected.
4. Digestive and urinary disorders
Some women with endometriosis report gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating, diarrhea or constipation, as well as pain during urination, especially during menstruation.
5. Chronic fatigue
😴 Constant pain and disease management can lead to chronic fatigue.
6. Infertility
Endometriosis is one of the main causes of infertility. Some 30% to 40% of women with endometriosis have difficulty conceiving.
What causes endometriosis?
👉 The exact causes of endometriosis have yet to be fully elucidated, but several theories exist. Here are a few hypotheses:
1. Retrograde menstruation
This theory suggests that menstrual blood, containing endometrial cells, flows back into the fallopian tubes and pelvic cavity instead of leaving the body, where the endometrial cells implant and grow.
2. Genetic factors
Endometriosis tends to be more common in women with a family history of the disease, suggesting a genetic component.
3. Immune dysfunction
In women with endometriosis, the immune system may not be able to recognize and destroy endometrial cells outside the uterus.
4. Transformation of peritoneal cells
According to this hypothesis, hormones or immune factors can transform peritoneal cells (cells lining the inside of the abdomen) into endometrial cells.
5. Endometrial cell transport
Endometrial cells could be transported throughout the body via the lymphatic or blood systems.
Not my Problem" serum oil, for pain relief
🥰 Natural cosmetics can also offer support, particularly through massage. Serum oil Not my Problem has been designed to help relieve the pain associated with endometriosis. Composed of essential oils with antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps relieve lower abdominal and back pain. Applied as a massage, it relaxes muscles and soothes cramps thanks to its warming action. Although not a substitute for analgesic treatment, it provides natural support and can help improve well-being.
Living with endometriosis: The importance of psychological support
🙌 Endometriosis affects not only the body, but also the mind. Chronic pain and daily challenges can lead to significant psychological suffering, impacting personal, social and professional life. It's crucial not to underestimate this dimension and to seek support, whether through therapy, support groups or associations such as EndoFrance. These organizations play an essential role in raising public awareness, supporting research, and offering a space for sharing for those affected by the disease.
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a complex disease requiring comprehensive management. While science has yet to find a definitive cure, there are several options available today to manage symptoms and improve quality of life for sufferers. Early diagnosis, psychological support and the adoption of wellness practices are essential to living better with endometriosis. Let's not forget that each case is unique, and that it's important to find the solutions best suited to your own body and needs.
