How does endometriosis affect overall health and what you can do to avoid it, according to a Gynaecologist

Learn how endometriosis impacts overall health and discover expert tips from a gynaecologist on how to reduce your risk.(Image: Pexels)

Endometriosis is a long-term (chronic) condition where tissue like the lining of the womb grows outside it. This displaced tissue can bind to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs in your pelvis. For many of them, each menstrual cycle sends these endometrial-like cells into hormonal overdrive (what thickens, breaks down and bleeds just like your uterine lining). Unlike menstrual blood that is released from the body, this tissue has nowhere to go and causes inflammation, scarring and adhesions.

Although endometriosis is a reproductive system disease, its effects are felt throughout the body. It may impact digestive, urinary and even neurologic functions contributing to a woman’s overall quality of life. Many women not only feel pain in their pelvis, but also experience fatigue, gastrointestinal symptoms and emotional distress.

The disorder can also result in fertility issues, so early identification and treatment are important. Knowing how endometriosis may impact other parts of the body and overall health allows you to recognize its symptoms early, as well as prevent or manage it properly.

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How Endometriosis Affects Other Organs

Endometrial tissue may also adhere to the intestines or bowel, leading to bloating, constipation, diarrhoea and painful bowel movements. When it involves the bladder, women might have to urinate frequently or feel pain during urination and may also notice blood in their urine around the time of their periods. In worse scenarios, the lesions can travel to your diaphragm or lungs and cause chest or shoulder pain during menstruation. This extensive reach is illustrative of how endometriosis becomes a systemic disease, not just a reproductive one.

“Endometriosis isn’t confined to the uterus—it’s an inflammatory condition and can involve many different organs,” shares Dr Medha Suri, a gynaecologist and reproductive health expert at Gunja IVF Centre in Gurgaon. “The inflammation it incites can lead to persistent pain, fatigue, and may even disrupt hormonal balance everywhere in the body.”

Impact on Overall Health

Chronic inflammation from endometriosis can also compromise the immune system, leading to pervasive fatigue. These hormonal changes can lead to mood swings and feelings of anxiety, as well as sleeping problems. And the unrelenting pain can spill over in mental health problems, including depression or social withdrawal. With all the physical and mental strain, it is crucial to take care of both body and mind.

Prevention and Management Tips

And while it’s not entirely preventable, there are things you can do to lower your risk and manage symptoms well:

• Keep your hormones in check with high-fiber, antioxidant and omega-3 infused foods.

• Work out regularly to prevent circulation and inflammation problems.

• Limit artificial estrogen exposure, such as with processed foods and plastic.

• Insist on early diagnosis if you have had ongoing pelvic pain or irregular bleeding.

• Comply with medical advice, when suggested hormone treatment and/or minimally invasive surgery.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.