Debunking Myths About Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb. This can cause pain during periods, sexual intercourse, urination, or bowel movements. It can also lead to other symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and mental health issues.
A quick note on sex and gender: Sex and gender exist on spectrums. Throughout this article, terms like “male” and “female” are used to refer to sex assigned at birth. To learn more, click here.
Endometriosis can also affect fertility and sometimes even spread to other organs, such as the lungs. Worldwide, about 10% of females of reproductive age are affected, although it’s extremely rare for males to have the condition. Diagnosing endometriosis can be tricky since its symptoms vary from person to person, often causing delays in diagnosis.
There are some known risk factors, such as having a family history of endometriosis, starting periods before age 11, having heavy or long-lasting periods, or experiencing short menstrual cycles. A diagnosis is usually confirmed through laparoscopic surgery, a procedure done under anesthesia. Treatment options include hormone therapy, pain relief medications, and sometimes surgery. Unfortunately, there’s currently no cure for the condition.
With so many myths out there, it’s easy to get confused about what’s true when it comes to endometriosis. To help clear things up, we spoke with Dr. Barbara Stegmann, a clinical lead at Organon, and Carly King, a licensed naturopathic doctor, as well as looked at recent research to separate the facts from the fiction.
Common Endometriosis Myths vs. Facts
1. Periods Are Always Very Heavy or Very Painful
Myth: Periods are usually extremely painful or heavy with endometriosis.
Fact: While many females with endometriosis do experience heavy and painful periods, it’s not always the case. Pain can also show up elsewhere, like with bowel or urinary pain, ovulation pain, or pain during sexual activity. Periods can vary, and symptoms can be mild for some people. If you’re concerned about your symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional.
2. Pregnancy Can Cure Endometriosis
Myth: Pregnancy cures endometriosis.
Fact: Pregnancy doesn’t cure endometriosis. While some women may see their symptoms improve during pregnancy, others may not notice any change, and in some cases, symptoms may even worsen. Pregnancy does alter hormone levels, but it doesn’t offer a cure for the condition.
3. A Hysterectomy Cures Endometriosis
Myth: A hysterectomy is a cure for endometriosis.
Fact: While a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) can help relieve symptoms for some people, it’s not a guaranteed cure. Endometriosis can still recur if there are lesions left outside the uterus, especially since the ovaries, which produce estrogen, are typically left intact. Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) lesions may not improve even after a hysterectomy.
4. Endometriosis Only Affects the Female Reproductive Organs
Myth: Endometriosis only affects the reproductive organs.
Fact: Endometriosis can develop in places beyond the reproductive organs. While it most commonly affects the pelvic region, it has been found in other areas, including the lungs and even the brain. Though rare, endometriosis can cause symptoms like seizures if it affects the brain. Most cases are confined to the peritoneum (the lining of the abdomen), but it’s important for healthcare professionals to watch for endometriosis in other areas.
5. Endometriosis Always Causes Pain
Myth: Endometriosis always causes pain.
Fact: Although chronic pelvic pain is common, not everyone with endometriosis experiences pain. Some people with severe forms of endometriosis might not feel much pain, while others with mild forms might have excruciating pain. Pain intensity can depend on where the lesions are located and whether they release certain chemicals that cause pain.
6. Menopause Stops Endometriosis
Myth: Menopause stops endometriosis.
Fact: Endometriosis may not end after menopause. While most women experience relief due to lower estrogen levels, about 2-5% of postmenopausal women still have endometriosis. If symptoms persist after menopause, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to explore pain management options.
7. Endometriosis Equals Infertility
Myth: Endometriosis always leads to infertility.
Fact: While 30-50% of females with endometriosis may have trouble getting pregnant, it doesn’t mean that everyone with the condition will be infertile. Many women with endometriosis can get pregnant, even if they have severe forms of the disease. If you’re trying to conceive, working with a healthcare professional is key, especially since some treatments for endometriosis can prevent pregnancy.
8. Abortion Causes Endometriosis
Myth: Abortion causes endometriosis.
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that abortion causes endometriosis. The myth likely arose due to political debates surrounding abortion, but scientifically, there’s no link between abortion and the development of endometriosis.
9. Birth Control Pills Cure Endometriosis
Myth: Birth control pills cure endometriosis.
Fact: Birth control pills don’t cure endometriosis, but they can help manage symptoms by suppressing ovulation and menstruation. They’re often used as a treatment option, but they won’t cure the condition. Other medications, like pain relievers and hormone therapies, can also be used to manage symptoms.
10. High Estrogen Levels Cause Endometriosis
Myth: High estrogen levels cause endometriosis.
Fact: While high estrogen levels may contribute to the condition, they don’t cause endometriosis. Estrogen-blocking medications can help relieve symptoms, but it’s more likely that the immune system plays a role in the development of the condition. Inflammation and certain white blood cells may also contribute to endometriosis, as new research suggests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What causes endometriosis?
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unclear, but it’s thought to involve a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. Research continues to explore how the condition develops and how the immune system may be involved.
Q2: Can endometriosis be cured?
There is no known cure for endometriosis, but symptoms can be managed with treatments like hormone therapy, pain medication, and surgery. Treatment plans are tailored to each person’s specific needs.
Q3: How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Endometriosis is typically diagnosed through laparoscopic surgery, where a small camera is used to check for endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Symptoms and medical history also play a role in the diagnosis.
Q4: Can endometriosis affect fertility?
Endometriosis can make it more difficult to get pregnant, but not everyone with the condition will experience infertility. Many women with endometriosis can still conceive with or without treatment.
Q5: Does menopause stop endometriosis?
Menopause can reduce symptoms of endometriosis in many women due to lower estrogen levels, but some women may still experience symptoms after menopause. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for pain management if symptoms persist.
Q6: Can endometriosis cause pain without visible lesions?
Yes, some people with endometriosis experience pain even if there are no visible lesions. The pain can also vary depending on the type and location of the lesions, as well as whether they release pain-causing chemicals.
Q7: Is there a link between abortion and endometriosis?
No, there is no evidence linking abortion to the development of endometriosis. This is a myth with no scientific backing.
Q8: Are birth control pills a cure for endometriosis?
No, birth control pills don’t cure endometriosis, but they can help reduce symptoms by regulating hormones. They’re often part of a broader treatment plan but not a cure.
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a complex condition, and there are many myths surrounding it. While there’s no cure, treatments are available to help manage symptoms. If you think you have endometriosis, it’s important to speak to a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options. With the right care, many people with endometriosis can lead fulfilling lives.