Endometriosis is a health-related disease in which tissue like the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This can cause severe pain in the pelvis and make it difficult to get pregnant. Endometriosis can start at an individual's first period and lasts until menopause. The early beginning of endometriosis in teenagers raises concerns about the long-term effects on their reproductive health and quality of life.
When it comes to endometriosis in teenagers, there are several important points that doctors typically emphasize. Teenagers and their parents should be aware of the common symptoms of endometriosis, which may include painful periods (dysmenorrhea), heavy bleeding during menstruation (menorrhagia), pelvic pain outside of menstruation, pain during sexual intercourse, and gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or constipation, particularly during menstruation.
It's crucial to recognize and diagnose endometriosis early, as this can prevent potential complications and improve long-term outcomes. However, diagnosing endometriosis in teenagers can be challenging because symptoms may be attributed to normal menstrual changes or other conditions. Healthcare providers should listen carefully to the teenager's symptoms and conduct a thorough evaluation.
Initial treatment for endometriosis in teenagers typically involves conservative measures such as pain management with medications and lifestyle modifications. These treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and improve the teenager's quality of life while minimizing potential side effects.
Teenagers with endometriosis should receive regular follow-up care to monitor their symptoms, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and adjust management strategies as needed. Healthcare providers should maintain open communication with the teenager and their family to address any concerns or changes in symptoms promptly.
(Author: Dr Garima Sawhney, Senior Gynaecologist and Co-founder, Pristyn Care)
