Did you know that Dr. Luterbach supports women with endometriosis?
The exact incidence of endometriosis is uncertain, as estimates vary widely depending on the population studied and diagnostic methods used. However, some studies provide insights into the prevalence and risk factors associated with endometriosis.
Women with a first-degree family member who has endometriosis appear to have an increased risk of developing the condition, although the specific genetic factors are not yet fully understood.
Several factors have been associated with an increased risk of endometriosis diagnosis:
- History of ovarian cysts (7.3 times higher risk)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (1.6 times higher risk)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (3 times higher risk)
- Fibrocystic breast disease (1.4 times higher risk)
Additionally, women who are eventually diagnosed with endometriosis tend to consult doctors more frequently and are twice as likely to have taken time off work. The presence of multiple symptoms increases the likelihood of having endometriosis.
The main symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Pelvic pain, which can be cyclical (dysmenorrhea) or chronic
- Dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse)
- Dyschezia (painful bowel movements)
- Dysuria (painful urination)
- Infertility
- Fatigue or weariness
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Intermittent bleeding between periods
Other symptoms that may be associated with endometriosis include:
- Cyclical intestinal complaints such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation
- Nausea and vomiting (particularly with involvement of the ileo-caecal or peri-appendiceal region)
- Chest and shoulder pain (in cases of diaphragmatic endometriosis)
- Lower back and groin pain
- Upper body pain, including breast pain, upper back, and shoulders
- Headaches and migraines
The severity and combination of symptoms can vary depending on the location and extent of the endometriosis lesions. It's important to note that some women with endometriosis may experience few or no symptoms, while others may have severe, debilitating pain that impacts their quality of life.
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Dr. Luterbach, ND
