Painfully AWARE

Feel like you’re in an endless cycle of suffering? Help is at hand

WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS?

Many women experience painful periods and just put it down to being part of a woman’s lot. But there’s a chance their period pain could be endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is found in places outside the uterus. Endometriosis is commonly found in the pelvis – including on the bowel or ovaries. Occasionally, it’s even outside the pelvis, such as in scar tissue, in the belly button or even the lungs.

Any female from the time of their first period can suffer with endometriosis and it has varying levels of severity. The disease affects an estimated one in 10 women and girls and those assigned female at birth. There are more than 120,000 people living with endometriosis in Aotearoa.

Endometriosis symptoms include pain with periods, pain during or after sex, heavy bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, bowel problems, fatigue and fertility problems. Having “endo” can also have an impact on general physical, mental and social wellbeing.

The cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but it’s generally thought several factors are involved. A strong genetic link and possibly how genetics behave with other influences also plays a part. There is a higher risk of developing endometriosis if your mother and sisters are also affected. Early intervention is vital to improve quality of life, halt the progression of the disease and ensure fertility is not compromised.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

The only way to officially diagnose endometriosis is by viewing the pelvic cavity with laparoscopy (keyhole surgery). This is done in hospital under general anaesthetic and is best performed by a gynaecologist with expertise in treating endometriosis. After the medical team removes the endometriosis, a sample is sent to a lab for confirmation.

Endometriosis sufferers can become so used to their symptoms, they see period pain as a normal part of their lives, without realising they have the condition. They might not seek help until the pain is extreme or the endometriosis is discovered while in surgery for another reason. Ann, now 51, learned she had endometriosis 20 years ago, when she had a tumour removed from an ovary. “After surgery, my doctor told me it looked like I had endo and they removed it. I couldn’t believe how much better my periods were after that. I just thought my pain was normal.”

HOW IS IT TREATED?

Surgery to remove endometriosis can be life-changing. There are no known medications to cure endometriosis, but medications can be taken to help with pain. Some women also go on the contraceptive pill to ease some of the symptoms. Others may take magnesium or opt for treatments such as massage and acupuncture. Gentle exercise is also encouraged, as it releases endorphins that act as a natural painkiller.

WHERE TO GET HELP

Speak to your GP to assess whether it’s likely you’re suffering from endometriosis. They may well refer you to a specialist.

For support, you can also get in touch with Endometriosis New Zealand.

“We provide information, help, support and advice on wellbeing, and help you with an evidence-based plan to address the issues you are facing,” says Tanya Cooke,

CEO of ENZ.

You can book a free 30minute support appointment at nzendo.org.nz