Endometriosis
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue (tissue that lines the inside of the uterus) grows outside the uterus cavity and attaches to other organs in the abdominal cavity such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
This abnormal growth of tissues responds to your menstrual cycle hormones the same way as it does inside the uterus but cannot be discarded through the vagina and results in the formation of scar tissues in areas where the blood pools located. These scar tissues may obstruct the fallopian tubes or affect ovulation. Furthermore, endometrial tissue that grows inside the ovaries may form a type of ovarian mass known as an ‘endometrioma’, which again affects normal ovulation.
Why do I have this disease?
Some suggest that it is due to backward flowing of menstrual tissue through the fallopian tubes, full explanation requires further research.
Symptoms
- Painful menstrual periods;
- Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding;
- Recurring pelvic pain, or painful sex;
- No symptom in some cases
Uterine Fibroids
What is Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growth of the smooth muscle cells of the uterus which can develop throughout the uterus.
Why do I have this condition?
No known cause has been found for uterine fibroids, but these fibroids tend to shrink after menopause as they require oestrogen to grow.
Symptoms
Depends on the number, size, and location of the fibroids, you may experience:
- Severe, painful cramps
- Abnormal or excessive bleeding especially during your period
- Difficulty in bowel movement or urination if the fibroids are exerting pressure on your rectum or bladder
- Haemorrhoids
- In some of the cases, you may not have any symptoms due to small fibroids and you will only find out about your condition when you go through infertility testing.
- Ovulation Disorders
- Structural Problems in Female Reproductive System
- Others