Endometriosis: 3 Misconceptions about the disease

Today, one woman in seven is affected by endometriosis; the migration of the endometrium from the uterus. This disease can lead to numerous disorders, such as severe pain (particularly during menstruation), discomfort during sexual intercourse and fertility problems. Although it is a relatively common condition, this pathology remains widely unknown and under-diagnosed. The stakes are high, because the earlier the disease is diagnosed, the more effective the proposed treatments are.

Gynaecologists try increasingly to raise awareness of endometriosis among women, but in the meantime, here are some specialists’ answers to some common misconceptions.

IT IS NORMAL TO HAVE PAINFUL PERIODS:

False. Continuous or occasional pain is one of the first symptoms of the disease. Every woman experiencing this should speak about it with her doctor.

I HAVE ENDOMETRIOSIS, I WILL NEVER HAVE A CHILD:

False. Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease that affects the ovaries, in particular. The infertility that ensues is not definitive. If they are well-diagnosed and treated, 80% of affected patients could become pregnant if they wish.

YOU SHOULD NOT TAKE THE CONTINUOUS CONTRACEPTIVE PILL:

False. By taking the pill intermittently, we run the risk of the disease emerging at a later stage. The continuous pill does not mean being in artificial menopause; conversely, it is the best solution to limit the risk of recidivism.

Source: Saint-Joseph Hospital Group Paris 
Maureen Diament