This problem that can affect fertility, concerns between 10 and 15% of women between the ages of 25 and 40. But it remains difficult to diagnose.
Every month, because of hormones, the internal lining of the uterus, the endometrium, is transformed to accommodate an embryo. If there is no pregnancy, the endometrial tissue is eliminated: it is the menstrual bleeding. In endometriosis, this tissue is disseminated outside the uterus. It sets itself on other organs: the peritoneum, the intestine, the bladder, ovaries, between the vagina and the rectum, the lining of the abdomen, certain ligaments or on the lungs. These remaining tissues are subjected to the hormonal cycle, and undergo inflammation and bleeding during menstruation, what causes a pain often misunderstood.
It is important that the disease is diagnosed as early as possible. The more advanced is the disease, more the surgical procedures are long and difficult, because the organs are more damaged. The risk of recurrence is also higher. Furthermore, in 30 to 40% of cases of female infertility, endometriosis is discovered. If the disease is discovered too late, the ovary can be destroyed.
In the case of endometriosis, the experience of the doctors involved – radiologist, gynecologist – is fundamental. Indeed, it’s not just one specific examination that will allow to make a clear diagnosis, but the synthesis of the symptoms, anamnesis, MRI and ultrasound. Thus, the specialists that will be taking care of our patients for endometriosis in our medical center have a long experience with this disease.
Our endometriosis check-up program takes one day and includes:
- Pelvic MRI
- Ultrasound of the lower pelvic organs (uterus, Fallopian tubes, ovaries)
- Bacteriology analysis
- PAP test
- Final consultation with the gynaecologist, covering details of test results and diagnosis