Endometriosis is a chronic disease that occurs when the endometrium, a tissue that grows only in the uterus, begins to spread to other areas of the body, such as the ovaries, tubes, and even other organs, such as the intestines and bladder.
According to the Ministry of Health, seven million women, equivalent to one in ten women in the country, have endometriosis, but not all of them know it, mainly because it is difficult to confirm the diagnosis of the disease throughout life.
There is still a lot of misunderstanding and suspicion surrounding this situation. This is why Tiago Borges, a gynecologist and surgeon working in the endometriosis service at São Lucas Copacabana Hospital, Dasa, unveils the five main myths and facts about this disease.
Is it not possible to prevent endometriosis?
Reality. Even if it is not possible to pinpoint the causes of endometriosis and how to prevent it throughout life, some healthy habits, such as prioritizing good nutrition, maintaining regular exercise, living a less stressful daily life, and valuing good healthy nights and not sleeping, can help. Reducing the chances of developing the condition.
Can endometriosis cause infertility?
Reality. Up to 40% of patients may have infertility as the cause of endometriosis. However, although this is one of the main symptoms of the disease, endometriosis only hinders the process of fertilization, and therefore the development of pregnancy, usually in the most advanced cases of the disease.
Can it take years for a patient to be diagnosed with endometriosis?
Reality. According to Burgess, some symptoms of endometriosis are also observed in other diseases of the female reproductive system, such as severe pain during penetrative intercourse, strong cramps on menstrual days, and discomfort when urinating or defecating.
Therefore, it may take a long time for the patient’s physician to confirm the diagnosis of endometriosis, since it is necessary to assess the recurrence of symptoms over the months. It has been assessed that in Brazil a diagnosis may take up to 10 years to be confirmed.
Who has endometriosis in the family will get the disease?
myth. Although women with disease conditions in the family are more likely to develop endometriosis, this is not a rule and may never occur. Other risk factors associated with the development of the disease are not having children, starting menstruation early (before the age of 12), having uterine abnormalities and having long menstrual cycles.
There is no cure for endometriosis?
Reality. A cure for endometriosis has not yet been discovered, but there are currently several types of treatment that may be considered to relieve symptoms in the patient’s daily life, such as changes in diet and use of hormones that prevent menstruation.
According to Burgess, surgery comes into play when a patient with endometriosis does not improve with other types of treatment or when the lesions caused by the disease pose a risk to the woman’s health. In this scenario, robotic surgery stands out, which brings patients the latest surgical technology.
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