Beware of endometriosis, a silent killer of ovaries: Experts warn women

Women should be aware of the rare disease endometriosis regarded as a silent killer of ovaries and a slow killer of fertility experts warned on International Womenrsquos Day as March is also considered the Endometriosis Awareness MonthOnce a rare disease it is commonly diagnosed these days and the prevalence of endometriosis is on the rise in Karnataka experts pointed outEndometriosis is an inflammatory condition where endometrial tissue tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterusEndometriosis can make organs like the uterus bladder or the bowels stick together at certain points and this condition is called adhesionsDr Usha BR Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist Fertility and Laparoscopic Surgeon Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road Bengaluru explained that approximately 70 per cent of women visiting the outpatient department with complaints of painful menstrual periods and dyspareunia are diagnosed with endometriosis with some cases being asymptomaticldquoI see a minimum of 25 cases per month It also causes painful intercourse leading to sexual dysfunction interpersonal conflicts and later on infertility Endometriosis is a silent killer of ovaries and slow killer of fertilityrdquo Dr Usha explainedSEE PHOTOS What is a Flexitarian diet Mumbai health experts explain all you need to knowldquoEndometriosis that afflicts 10 to 15 per cent of women in their reproductive years and 70 per cent of those with chronic pelvic pain often remains veiled by misdiagnosis prolonging needless sufferingrdquo said Dr Ramesh B Obstetrician and Gynecologist Chief laparoscopic surgeon Endometriosis Specialist Altius Hospital BengaluruldquoIt usually presents as severe dysmenorrhea manifested as intense pain during periods which is frequently dismissed as normal These women endure not only physical agony but also mental anguish as their severe pain is often attributed to a presumed lower pain tolerance by their peersrdquo Dr Ramesh statedWith an average diagnostic delay of 67 years the journey is marred by persistent pain and compromised wellbeingEarly detection particularly in adolescence offers a glimmer of hope potentially mitigating anguish and preserving fertility he explainedIn Bengaluru Karnataka akin to many regions the hurdles in diagnosing and managing endometriosis endure compounded by obstacles like cost and symptom complexityYet the prospect of early intervention remains a beacon of hope promising relief from pain halting disease progression and safeguarding the fertility of women throughout the region Dr Ramesh statedDr Sharvari Mundhe Consultant Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist Motherhood Hospital Sarjapur Bengaluru explained Endometriosis poses a significant health challenge for women worldwide significantly impacting their daily lives and reproductive health With approximately one in ten women globally affected by this condition its prevalence is substantial In India alone it is estimated that 25 million women are grappling with endometriosisrdquoDespite its widespread occurrence endometriosis remains a perplexing puzzle in the medical domain often evading detection during diagnosis and leaving women to endure its burdensome effects in silence she saidldquoUrgent attention is needed to develop effective treatment options given the profound toll it takes on physical emotional and reproductive wellbeing Empowering women to better manage symptoms and safeguard their reproductive health requires increased investment in research education and access to specialised treatment optionsrdquo she addedDr Usha said that endometriosis affecting 1 in 7 women often manifests with pelvic pain heavy periods and infertility ldquoYet many sufferers may be asymptomatic unaware of the conditions presence Diagnosing endometriosis involves reviewing medical history conducting pelvic exams and often requires laparoscopic surgery for definitive confirmation and to remove endometrial tissue outside the uterusrdquo she saidLifestyle changes such as diet modifications and stress reduction may complement medical treatments Early detection and comprehensive management improve outcomes offering relief and enhancing the quality of life for those affected concurred the expertsThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever