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and Health
Women with irregular periods may have endometriosis – a chronic disorder caused by a growth of lining of the uterus outside of the uterus. Symptoms of endometriosis can include painful periods, abdominal or back pain, difficulty becoming pregnant, and other menstrual complications. By understanding the signs of endometriosis, it is possible to properly diagnose and treat the condition to improve overall health and fertility.
Symptoms of Irregular Periods and Endometriosis
The primary symptom of endometriosis is painful periods accompanied by abdominal cramps. Painful periods often begin at a young age and worsen over time. Additionally, other symptoms will be present before and after periods. These can include:
- Painful urination or bowel movements
- Pain during sex
- Lower back pain
- Migraine or headache during menstrual periods
- Heavy, prolonged or irregular bleeding
- Excessive bleeding between menstrual cycles
Diagnosing Irregular Periods and Endometriosis
If any of the above symptoms appear, a physician should be consulted for a proper diagnosis. To confirm the diagnosis of endometriosis, an ultrasound and laparoscopy may be required. During an ultrasound, the physician will use sound waves to produce an image of the internal organs. During a laparoscopy, a medical instrument is inserted into the abdominal cavity to look for any rare tissue. With the union of ultrasound and laparoscopy, a definitive diagnosis can be made.
Treatment and Health with Irregular Periods and Endometriosis
Treatment for endometriosis depends on the severity of the condition and its symptom. If the condition is mild and the pain tolerable, your physician may suggest pain relief medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, if the pain is too severe, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or progesterone IUDs are suggested to reduce the proliferation of the uterine lining outside the uterus. In certain cases, full removal of the uterus and uterus lining may be required.
Taking the time to understand irregular periods and endometriosis can have a great effect on overall health. By monitoring symptoms and seeking a doctor’s advice, it is possible to diagnose, treat and live with endometriosis to achieve a better quality of life.
