Explain the pain
Advancements in Endometriosis Diagnosis with Dr. John McNaught!
Afynia is excited to sponsor the newest Fertility In Focus podcast episode, Advancements in Endometriosis Diagnosis with Dr. John McNaught! Fertility In Focus is a podcast that explores the complex and often emotional journey of fertility. In this episode, Dr. John McNaught of CReATe West Fertility in London, Ontario discusses symptoms, signs, and challenges surrounding its diagnosis and the patient experience.
Endometriosis Impacts All Parts of Life
The delay in diagnosing endometriosis not only worsens chronic pelvic pain, but also amplifies emotional distress and affects many aspects of life. The uncertainty can heighten physical discomfort and emotional strain, impacting schooling, work, family dynamics, personal relationships, and overall well-being. This emphasizes the need for timely diagnosis and effective management strategies to relieve the burden of endometriosis on so many lives.
Endometriosis
For the millions of people suffering from chronic pelvic pain, it can be a life saver to receive a diagnosis.
"Every test, every scan that I went in for came back completely clean," she said. "I was healthy. Nothing was wrong, which was just so strange. It was this feeling of devastation because there was no answer. There was no clarity [as] to why I was feeling this way. And the fact that every month it would just get worse and worse and worse."
B.I. (Interview with ABC News)
Wildlife Conservationist
Consult physician
Blood sample
Test and analyze in lab
Results available to physician
EndomiR tests for the expression levels of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) that are differentially expressed in individuals with endometriosis versus symptomatic controls.
- Earlier relief
- Improved quality of life
- Patient-physician clarity
- Referral support
Source: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which the type of tissue that forms the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) is found outside the uterus.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
The most common symptom of endometriosis is chronic (long-term) pelvic pain, especially just before and during the menstrual period. Pain also may occur during sexual intercourse. If endometriosis affects the bowel, there can be pain during bowel movements. If it affects the bladder, there can be pain during urination.
Heavy menstrual bleeding is another symptom of endometriosis. Many women with endometriosis have no symptoms. Women without symptoms often learn they have endometriosis when they cannot get pregnant or when they are having surgery for something else.
How common is endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs in about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It is most often diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s.
How does endometriosis cause problems?
Endometriosis tissue responds to changes in a hormone called estrogen. The tissue may grow and bleed like the uterine lining does during the menstrual cycle. Surrounding tissue can become irritated, inflamed, and swollen.
The breakdown and bleeding of this tissue each month also can cause scar tissue to form. This scar tissue is called adhesions. Sometimes adhesions can cause organs to stick together. The bleeding, inflammation, and scarring can cause pain, especially before and during menstruation.
What is the link between endometriosis and infertility?
Almost 4 in 10 women with infertility have endometriosis. Inflammation from endometriosis may damage the sperm or egg or interfere with their movement through the fallopian tubes and uterus. In severe cases of endometriosis, the fallopian tubes may be blocked by adhesions or scar tissue.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
An obstetrician–gynecologist (OB-GYN) first may do a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. But the only way to tell for sure that you have endometriosis is through a surgical procedure called laparoscopy. Sometimes a small amount of tissue is removed during the procedure and tested in a lab. This is called a biopsy.
How is endometriosis treated?
Treatment for endometriosis depends on the extent of the disease, your symptoms, and whether you want to have children. Endometriosis may be treated with medication, surgery, or both. When pain is the primary problem, medication usually is tried first.
Endometriosis?
