Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a benign but often debilitating gynecological condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. This tissue, which normally lines the inside of the uterus, can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs.

The origins of the disease

The exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, but there are several theories:

• Retrograde menstruation : Part of the menstrual flow flows back into the fallopian tubes and settles in the pelvic cavity.
• Genetic factors : There may be a family predisposition, as some women have a family history of endometriosis.
• Immunological theories : A malfunction of the immune system could allow endometrial cells to grow outside the uterus.

Symptoms

Endometriosis can manifest itself through various symptoms, the most common of which are:

• Dysmenorrhea : severe menstrual pain.
• Painful intercourse : pain during sexual intercourse.
• Chronic pelvic pain : persistent abdominal or pelvic pain.
• Fertility issues : difficulties conceiving a child.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms : pain during bowel movements, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Fatigue : feeling of chronic fatigue.

Coverage

The treatment of endometriosis is multidisciplinary and personalized.

Consultations with specialists : gynecological surgeons, radiologists, digestive surgeons, urologists, pain specialists, osteopaths, physical therapists, psychologists.

The diagnosis

Endometriosis is diagnosed by:

• Clinical examination : assessment of symptoms and pelvic examination.
• Imaging : Pelvic ultrasound and MRI to detect endometriotic lesions.
• Diagnostic laparoscopy : surgical procedure allowing direct visualization of lesions.

Treatment and follow-up

Endometriosis treatment can be medical or surgical, and follow-up care is essential for managing symptoms in the long term.

Medical treatment:

• Hormone therapy : Estrogen-progestogens, progestogens, GnRH agonists to block natural cycles, reduce symptoms, and slow disease progression.

Surgical treatment:

• Laparoscopy or laparotomy : conservative surgical procedure to remove endometriotic lesions or hysterectomy in severe cases

Follow-up:

• Regular consultations : to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and adjust therapies if necessary.

For specialized care for endometriosis, please feel free to contact me. I will accompany you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment, offering you the best possible care.

Dr. Marie Mikayelyan
Gynecologist-Surgeon