Even after suffering from intense pain, fatigue, and excessive menstrual bleeding, it took model and television host Padma Lakshmi more than 20 years to get diagnosed with endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
Worldwide, endometriosis affects roughly 10% (1.9 crore) of reproductive-age women and girls, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, many individuals find it challenging to receive a prompt diagnosis of the condition due to several factors.
This Endometriosis Awareness Month, Dr Neha Gupta, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fortis Hospital, Noida, discusses why endometriosis goes undiagnosed for years in some women and shares ways to tackle the problem.
Also Read: Symptoms Of Endometriosis-Related Leg Pain: Why It Occurs And How To Treat It
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue resembling the lining of the uterus, called endometrial-like tissue, grows outside the womb, often attaching to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining, shares Dr Gupta, adding that it can cause severe pain in the pelvis and may make it harder to conceive.
Unfortunately, the cause of endometriosis is unknown, there is no known way to prevent the condition, and there is no cure so far, as per the WHO.
However, early diagnosis can give the individual a chance to receive effective treatment to manage symptoms. This can also include surgery in some cases.
Why Endometriosis Goes Undiagnosed In Women for Years
Dr Gupta says, “Endometriosis can go undiagnosed because its symptoms—like pelvic pain, heavy periods, or infertility—can mimic other conditions. These symptoms vary widely and are not specific to endometriosis. Also, some women might dismiss their symptoms as just "bad periods" and not seek help.”
As per a study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (AJOG), a proper and correct endometriosis diagnosis can take between 4 and 11 years from the onset of symptoms.
This delay contributes to substantial patient morbidity due to chronic pain, potential infertility, and impaired quality of life.
Risks Associated With Undiagnosed And Untreated Endometriosis
According to Dr Gupta, endometriosis can lead to severe pelvic pain, fertility issues, and, in rare cases, damage to other organs due to the growth of tissue outside the uterus if left undiagnosed and untreated.
Research even suggests that endometriosis causes about 50% of infertility cases.
Also Read: 5 Most Common Gynaecological Problems Every Woman Should Know About
Measures To Take
Early detection is key to preventing endometriosis-related complications.
“It involves paying close attention to symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, and infertility, “says Dr Gupta.
She adds, “Doctors can perform pelvic exams, ultrasounds, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or laparoscopy—a procedure to look inside the pelvic area—to diagnose endometriosis accurately. Prompt medical attention can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.”
Conclusion
Millions of women are currently living with endometriosis, experiencing severe symptoms including intense menstrual pain, heavy blood flow, and infertility issues. However, there are several individuals still struggling to receive a proper diagnosis. While there isn’t a cure for the condition, nor can it be prevented, early diagnosis assists in receiving various treatments to manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications. Therefore, if you have symptoms, it is important to speak with a specialised doctor and receive appropriate treatment.