Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus – endometrium – grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves the ovaries, fallopian tubes and tissue lining the pelvis.
What are the 4 stages of endometriosis – Graded according to the number and depth of the lesions
- Stage 1 – Minimal
- Stage 2 – Mild
- Stage 3 – Moderate
- Stage 4 – Severe
How serious is endometriosis – Endometriosis is not a life threatening condition. It is however a very debilitating and serious disorder that often results in many depending on over the counter opioids to ease the level of chronicity and discomfort. Addiction, depression, fatigue and anxiety are often the side effects left behind once the pain subsides, as personal welfare on both a private and professional level may profoundly become impacted. Many women find their voices are not been heard or their concerns are not taken serious as they feel their condition is not considered as disturbing as it is.
What is the main cause of endometriosis – This is the passing of menstrual blood flow back into the fallopian tubes and the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body. The real issue lies where sensory nerve cells line the cavity and surrounding tissue. Each month as the body sheds an unfertilised egg, it is delivered out of the body in the form of menses (period). As part of the natural progression with this cycle the endometrial tissue outside the uterus also undergoes its own period. The issue here is that the bleed occurs around sensory nerves thus causing pain of various intensities. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine we would not consider endometriosis as a disease but as a symptom of menstrual pain. We refer to this as blood stasis with typical formation of abdominal lumps. Regulating blood circulation and correct chi energy imbalances as promoted with acupuncture, coupled with herbal remedies are a very powerful source of natural medicines.
What are the signs and symptoms of endometriosis – Prior to the period starting, the abdominal pain and cramps become more disturbing as the period approaches the due date. As the periods starts to flow the pain intensifies. However, as the flow continues and the stagnation associated with the blood stasis is relieved the symptom of pain will ease and become less obvious. Pain as seen with excessive menstrual cramping which are not necessarily confined to one side only are felt in the abdomen and lower back, with sensations of pain sometimes stretching down the legs, front and back. Abnormal menstrual flow may also indicate endometriosis, although the pain may not be cyclic as some women may experience pain at different times of the month whilst outside her dates. Similarly, pain maybe experienced throughout the entire month.