Endometriosis, sometimes called “endo,” is a common gynecological condition that occurs when tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus, also known as the endometrium, is found outside its normal location. This may result in inflammation, as the tissue that is outside of the uterus responds to the monthly fluctuations of the menstrual cycle (What is endometriosis, 2022). Generally, endometriosis is found in the pelvic cavity. The Endometriosis Foundation of America states that endometriosis can attach to any of the female reproductive organs including, but not limited to, the outside of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, peritoneum, and any of the spaces between the bladder, uterus, and vagina. This gynecological condition affects females mostly in their reproductive years and can also affect adolescents who have just started to have their menstrual cycle. The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, however researchers believe that problems with menstrual period flow, immune system problems, hormones, and genetic factors may play a role (OASH, 2019). There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but treatment and management options have been found to greatly improve the quality of life for those living with endometriosis.
Depending on the child’s stage of development, here are some key words you can use when explaining endometriosis to children or adolescents:
• Uterus (womb) – shaped like an upside-down pear, expand and contract to help the body when growing a baby
• Tissue – connect and support other tissues in your body and surround your organs
• Organs – part of the body, like the heart, lungs, or brain, that help keep your body working
• Inflammation – red or swollen, can be found inside or outside of the body
• Menstrual cycle – a release of blood from a girl’s uterus, out through the vagina
• Vagina – a muscular, hollow tube that extends from vaginal opening to the uterus
• Muscles – large groups of cells that help your body move
• Cells – building blocks or the basic components of your body
According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America (2022), the most common symptoms of endometriosis include:
• Abnormal periods (including periods with heavy bleeding [menorrhagia] and prolonged periods)
• Painful periods (painful menstrual cramps [dysmenorrhea])
• Painful sex (dyspareunia)
• Bowel and urinary disorders (i.e. nausea, vomiting, bloating, and gassiness)
• Neuropathy
• Infertility – can prevent the release of eggs and decrease the quality and number of eggs
• Fatigue and personality changes
Endometriosis Facts
• Nearly 1 in 10 women in their reproductive years (aged 12-52) are affected by endometriosis (Endometriosis.org, n.d.).
• Endometriosis affects an estimated 176 million women worldwide regardless of their ethnic and social background. Many remain undiagnosed and are therefore not treated (Endometriosis.org, n.d.).
• It is estimated that 30-40% of women with endometriosis may not be able to have children (Endometriosis.org, n.d.).
• The following health conditions are found at higher rates in women with endometriosis: irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, allergies, intestinal dysbiosis, and hypothyroidism (Endo Facts, 2021).
• Endometriosis is not cured by pregnancy. Some women do have relief of symptoms during or after a pregnancy but others have worsening (Endo Facts, 2021).
• Researchers believe that at least 11% of women, or more than 6 ½ million women in the United States, have endometriosis (OASH, 2019).
• On average, there is a 7-10 year delay in diagnosis (What is endometriosis, 2022).
Resources
- Websites
• https://endometriosis.org/
• https://www.endocenter.org/
• https://endometriosisassn.org/
• https://www.endofound.org/
• https://www.speakendo.com/
• https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/ - Books
• Know Your Endo: An Empowering Guide to Health and Hope with Endometriosis by Jessica Murnane
• How to Endo by Bridget Hustwaite
• Beating Endo: How to Reclaim Your Life from Endometriosis by Iris Kerin Orbuch MD and Amy Stein DPT
• Heal Endometriosis Naturally: Without Painkillers, Drugs, or Surgery by Wendy K Laidlaw
• Outsmart Endometriosis: Relieve Your Symptoms and Get Your Career Back on Track by Dr. Jessica Drummond - Applications
• MyFLO Period Tracker
• Flo Period & Ovulation Tracker
• Endometrix
• Frendo
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References
Endometriosis.org. (n.d.). About endometriosis. Endometriosis.org. Retrieved from https://endometriosis.org/endometriosis/
Endometriosis. Office on Women’s Health (OASH). (2019). Retrieved from https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/endometriosis
Endo Facts. Endometriosis Association. (2021). Retrieved from https://endometriosisassn.org/top-10-facts-about-endo
What is endometriosis? Endometriosis Foundation of America. Endometriosis : Causes – Symptoms – Diagnosis – and Treatment. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.endofound.org/endometriosis