Vaginal endometriosis, a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, significantly impacts women’s lives in India.
Endometriosis mostly disguises as period pain (Photo credit: Pixabay)
New Delhi: Endometriosis can significantly impact fertility in women posing major challenges for those who want to conceive. The condition is characterised by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus.
Dr Rubina Shanawaz Z, Consultant Uro-Gynaecology, Gynaec-Oncology & Robotic Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru told News9, “Vaginal endometriosis, a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, significantly impacts women’s lives in India. While estimates suggest around 42 million Indian women grapple with endometriosis, the specific prevalence of vaginal involvement remains unclear.”
Understanding the Enigma:
Vaginal endometriosis presents with a spectrum of symptoms, including:
• Painful sex (dyspareunia)
• Pain during urination or bowel movements
• Bleeding outside menstrual periods
• Pelvic pain during menstruation
• Infertility
However, due to societal taboos surrounding menstruation and pelvic health, discussions about these symptoms are often stifled. Additionally, many women lack access to adequate healthcare, leading to delayed diagnosis and prolonged suffering.
Navigating Diagnosis:
Diagnosing vaginal endometriosis can be challenging. While laparoscopy remains the gold standard, its accessibility and affordability pose hurdles in India. Non-invasive techniques like ultrasound and MRI can offer clues, but definitive diagnosis often requires specialized expertise and advanced imaging modalities.
Treatment Landscape:
Treatment options for vaginal endometriosis aim to manage pain and improve quality of life. Hormonal therapy, using medications like progestins and GnRH agonists, can help suppress endometrial growth. Laparoscopic surgery, aiming to remove or excise endometrial implants, is often considered the definitive treatment.
By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by women with vaginal endometriosis in India and taking concrete steps towards improved awareness, diagnosis, and treatment, we can empower them to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Symptoms of endometriosis
The main symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain which is often associated with menstrual periods. The pain is so bad that it may become worse over time. Some of the common symptoms of endometriosis may include:
Painful periods
Pain with sex
Pain with bowel movements or urination
Infertility
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