About 1 Out of Every 10 Women in the United States Suffer From Endometriosis | Endometriosis Awareness Month
About 1 out of every 10 women in the United States suffer from endometriosis. "Awareness is key in helping a woman recognize their risk factors for as well as symptoms of endometriosis," says Dr. Jeff Fahy with Premier Women's Health.
Who is at risk for endometriosis?
The risk factors for endometriosis include a family history of endometriosis, defects in the uterus or fallopian tubes, cervix and/or vagina and early age of starting one’s menstrual period. Cycle length shorter than 27 days and menstrual flow greater than seven days and delayed childbearing are also risks.
What are the common symptoms of endometriosis?
The classic symptoms associated with endometriosis are heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia) and extremely painful periods (dysmenorrhea). Eventually endometriosis can become severe enough to chronic cause pelvic pain, low back pain, rectal pain, and pain with sexual activity (dyspareunia).
What impact can endometriosis have on me?
The very presence of endometriosis, regardless of how severe, has been shown to impact fertility. The presence of endometriosis seems to alter proper immune functioning and changes the hormonal environment, leading to problems with conception. The fallopian tubes may or may not be blocked due to scarring associated with endometriosis. As endometriosis worsens in severity, the fallopian tube‘s often become blocked.
Is endometriosis treatable?
Many women of reproductive age experience symptoms associated with endometriosis without knowing that they have endometriosis. Endometriosis is treatable, especially in the early stages. In addition to screening for cervical abnormalities with the use of pap smears, regular annual gynecology examinations allow physicians to screen and treat patients who have symptoms of endometriosis helping patients with quality of life and often assisting with problems conceiving.
LADIES, schedule your annual exam with your gynecologist today!
Dr. Jeff Fahy serves Baldwin County with locations in Bay Minette and Daphne. Schedule an appointment by calling (251) 937-2380.
