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Endometriosis

What is Endometriosis?

In women with endometriosis womb lining tissue (endometrium) is found outside the womb and can cause pain and discomfort. Endometriosis is a long-term condition affecting around 2 million women in the UK.

It is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 25 and 40. It is rare after menopause. Some women will have a mild form of the condition, others will experience extreme pain, heavy periods and will have difficulty becoming pregnant. Endometriosis occurs when cells like the ones that line the endometrium (womb/uterus lining) are found elsewhere in the body, usually on the pelvic peritoneum, ovaries, bladder and bowel.

What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?

The most common symptoms of Endometriosis are:

  • Very painful abdominal cramps or back pain during menstruation
  • Painful bowel movements
  • Painful urination, especially during periods
  • Painful, irregular or heavy bleeding during periods
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Painful sex
  • Difficulty becoming pregnant
  • Fatigue

What causes Endometriosis?

At this time there are no known causes for endometriosis. Although there are several theories, none fully explain the actual cause.

It is possible that a combination of the following factors may cause endometriosis, but again these are all theories:

Retrograde Menstruation

Genetic Predisposition

Lymphatic or circulatory spread

Immune Dysfunction

Environmental Causes

Metaplasia

What treatment is available for Endometriosis?

Our Gynaecologist Consultants are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis and offer personalised care. During your appointment, you will have an examination with an ultrasound scan and blood tests may possibly also be required.

You may also be advised to have a laparoscopy procedure. A laparoscopy procedure is an operation, performed under general anaesthetic in which a camera (a laparoscope) is inserted into the pelvis via a small cut near the navel. The surgeon uses the camera to see the pelvic organs and look for signs of endometriosis.

Although we are unable to perform laparoscopy procedures at our clinic, your consultant will be able to refer you either privately or to the NHS.

Your consultant will discuss with you the findings of all investigations and together a plan for treatment will be created.

 

What support is available when suffering with Endometriosis?

We understand and sympathise that the pain and discomfort can be debilitating for those who have endometriosis. No one should have to suffer, and our mission is to ensure you are supported throughout your journey with us.

Along with support from our team, there are many fantastic support groups out there for those who are undergoing investigations or are diagnosed with endometriosis. Below are some links to websites you may find helpful:

Endometriosis UK

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

NHS

Book an Appointment

Many of our appointments including Ultrasound Scans, Consultations and Therapy Appointments are available to book online by following this link. Alternatively, for fertility and all other appointments, please call 01483 454016

Meet the team

Mr Emmanuel Kalu

Consultant Gynaecologist and Medical Director
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Mr Jay Chatterjee

Professor Jay Chatterjee

Consultant Gynaecologist and Gynae-oncology Surgeon
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Dr Petya Doncheva

Consultant Gynaecologist
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Dr Julia Kopeika

Consultant Gynaecologist
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