Endometriosis causes significant distress for many women. While many are familiar with the term, they may need help understanding its meaning, symptoms, or potential dangers. So, what exactly is endometriosis, and what symptoms should prompt caution and timely treatment?

Typically, endometrial tissue is found inside the uterine cavity, where it undergoes cyclic changes in response to hormonal fluctuations, resulting in menstruation. 

However, in endometriosis, some of this tissue escapes the uterine cavity. It appears on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic peritoneum, rectovaginal septum, and even in distant sites like the lungs, pleura, and arms. These ectopic tissues respond to hormones and bleed cyclically, but without an outlet for the blood, they accumulate locally, forming nodules, cysts, or adhesions, leading to various symptoms and problems.

When the following four symptoms occur, it is crucial to take them seriously and seek prompt treatment:

1. Dysmenorrhea (Painful Menstruation):

If you have never had dysmenorrhea before but start experiencing gradually worsening menstrual pain, or if you already have dysmenorrhea but notice significant changes in its severity, nature, or duration, it is essential to consider the possibility of endometriosis.

This type of pain usually begins 1-2 days before menstruation starts, peaks on the first day of menstruation, and then gradually diminishes until the end of the period. The pain is often located in the lower abdomen and lower back and may sometimes radiate to the perineum, anus, or thighs.

2. Chronic Pelvic Pain:

This type of pain can be constant or intermittent, varying in intensity from person to person. It may be unrelated to the menstrual cycle or worsen before or after menstruation. The pain is typically felt in the pelvic area, such as the lower abdomen, lower back, rectum, or vagina.

Additionally, pain during intercourse can occur due to ectopic endometrial tissue affecting pelvic ligaments or the rectovaginal septum, which is triggered by physical contact and stimulation during intercourse.

3. Menstrual Irregularities:

Endometriosis can also lead to menstrual irregularities, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, or spotting between periods. This is due to the ectopic endometrial tissue affecting ovarian function, leading to hormonal imbalances. The ectopic tissue can also form cysts (chocolate cysts) on the ovaries, disrupting ovulation and hormone secretion, resulting in menstrual irregularities.

4. Infertility

On the one hand, ectopic endometrial tissue can cause pelvic adhesions, fallopian tube blockages, ovarian dysfunction, and other issues, affecting the discharge, fertilization, and implantation of eggs. 

On the other hand, patients with endometriosis experience changes in their immune environment, producing antibodies against endometrial tissue and other autoantibodies. These antibodies may attack embryos, leading to difficulties in conception or early miscarriage.

When these symptoms occur, delaying treatment may result in severe consequences:

Firstly, the pain symptoms will worsen, severely affecting quality of life. Long-term pain may cause anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues, placing significant pressure on both physical and mental health.

Secondly, if endometriosis is not promptly treated, the condition will progress, with more and larger ectopic lesions developing. This aggravates pelvic adhesions and significantly increases the difficulty of treatment.

Lastly, since endometriosis affects fertility, delaying treatment may exacerbate infertility issues, significantly impacting patients' families and life planning.

Therefore, when experiencing the above symptoms, seeking medical attention promptly, obtaining a precise diagnosis, and choosing appropriate treatment under medical guidance is crucial. Avoid delaying treatment to prevent more significant pain and loss. 

If antibiotic treatment proves ineffective or leads to resistance, herbal medicine like Fuyan Pill is a better option, but it should be avoided during menstruation and pregnancy.

Additionally, women should maintain good lifestyle habits and mindset daily, undergo regular gynecological examinations, and prioritize early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

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