Endometriosis Singapore: How to stop it from Spreading Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood condition. It occurs when tissu...
Endometriosis Singapore: How to stop it from Spreading
Endometriosis
is a common yet often misunderstood condition. It occurs when tissue similar to
the lining of the uterus, called endometrium, begins to grow outside the
uterus.
This
development can lead to severe pain among other health complications. See how
to self-screen for endometriosis in Singapore on this page: https://drmaliclinic.com/self-screening-tool-for-endometriosis/.
On
this page, we will show you effective strategies to halt the progression of
endometriosis. But first;
How do you know if you
have Endometriosis?
Endometriosis
often affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other areas within the pelvis.
In some cases, this tissue can spread beyond the pelvic organs.
The
growth of this tissue can cause inflammation, scarring, and adhesions which
explains why people with endometriosis often experience chronic pain,
particularly during menstruation. Symptoms
of endometriosis vary from person to person but often include:
●
Chronic pelvic pain
●
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
●
Pain during intercourse
●
Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
●
Fatigue
●
Infertility
Diagnosing
endometriosis can be challenging due to the overlap of symptoms with other
conditions. When visiting for endometriosis in Singapore, your provider may use
a combination of pelvic exams, imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs, and
laparoscopic surgery for definitive diagnosis. During laparoscopy, a small
camera is inserted through incisions in the abdomen to allow them to visualize
and potentially treat the affected areas.
What Stops the Growth of
Endometriosis?
There
are several factors that contribute to the spread and worsening of
endometriosis. The good news is that there are several treatments that can help
stop its spread. To stop the growth of endometriosis in Singapore, you may be
recommended or prescribed any of the treatments below;
1.Hormonal Therapies
Hormonal
therapies are often the first line of treatment for managing endometriosis.
These treatments aim to reduce or eliminate estrogen production to slow the
growth of endometrial tissue. Here are some treatments that may help;
●
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone
(GnRH) Agonists:
These medications induce a temporary menopausal state to significantly reduce
estrogen levels. This can provide relief from pain and help to shrink
endometrial tissue.
●
Oral Contraceptives: Combined estrogen and progestin
contraceptives regulate menstrual cycles and can reduce the intensity of
symptoms. Many doctors recommend this approach as a first step in managing
endometriosis.
●
Progestin Therapy: Progestin can counteract estrogen's
effects to stop the growth of endometrial tissue. It is often prescribed to
women who cannot take estrogen or prefer not to.
2.Surgery
Surgery
may be necessary if you have severe endometriosis. This is particularly
important if you have not responded well to hormonal treatments. You may
undergo;
●
Laparoscopic Excision: This minimally invasive surgery
involves making small incisions in the abdomen to remove endometrial growths.
It can provide significant relief and prevent further spread.
●
Hysterectomy: In extreme cases, doctors may
recommend a hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus. Some women also
choose to have their ovaries removed (oophorectomy) to reduce estrogen
production further. While this can effectively manage endometriosis, it leads
to menopause and comes with its own set of risks and side effects.
3.Pain Management and Symptom Relief
Managing
pain and other symptoms is crucial for improving quality of life. For pain
management you may be prescribed;
●
Over-the-Counter Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help relieve pain and reduce
inflammation associated with endometriosis.
●
Physical Therapy: Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be
beneficial for women experiencing pelvic pain. Therapists can teach relaxation
techniques and exercises to alleviate discomfort.
●
Alternative Treatments: Some women find relief through
acupuncture and other alternative therapies. These treatments can help manage
pain and reduce stress.
4.Lifestyle Modifications
There
are also several lifestyle modifications you can make to halt the spread of
endometriosis. When seeing a specialist of endometriosis in Singapore you may
be recommended;
●
Dietary Changes: Diet plays a significant
role in managing endometriosis. An anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce
symptoms and prevent the progression of the condition. Here are some dietary
tips:
I.
Increase Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce
inflammation.
II.
Eat more fruits and vegetables to get essential
vitamins and antioxidants, which may help combat inflammation.
III.
Limit trans fats and red meat consumption as these foods may worsen endometriosis symptoms. Consider
opting for healthier fats, like olive oil and avocados.
5.Exercise and Stress Management
Regular
physical activity is essential for managing endometriosis and overall health.
Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling can help reduce estrogen levels
and improve circulation to reduce symptoms.
Also,
stress can exacerbate
endometriosis symptoms. So, you may want to incorporate relaxation techniques into
your routine to significantly reduce stress levels and improve overall
well-being.
6.Supplements and Alternative Treatments
Some
nutritional supplements may offer additional support for women with
endometriosis. For example, in supplement form, omega-3s can further reduce
inflammation.
Adequate
vitamin D levels have been linked to a lower risk of developing endometriosis.
Consider talking to your doctor about testing your levels and supplementation
if necessary.
Turmeric
supplements may help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. Some women report
relief from endometriosis symptoms through acupuncture, which may help reduce
pain and improve overall well-being.
How to Support Fertility
While Managing Endometriosis
Regular
medical follow-ups are essential for women with endometriosis to monitor their
condition and adjust treatment plans as needed. Endometriosis can significantly
impact fertility, but there are strategies to manage this aspect of the
condition including;
●
Using Fertility-Specific
Treatments:
If you're
trying to conceive, discuss fertility options with your healthcare provider. In
vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended for women with endometriosis,
especially if other treatments have not been successful.
●
Minimizing Fertility
Impact:
Early
diagnosis and treatment can help protect fertility. It's essential to address
endometriosis symptoms and explore options for preserving fertility, such as
egg freezing before surgical procedures for the condition.
●
Consulting a Specialist: A reproductive endocrinologist can
provide personalized guidance for managing fertility while living with
endometriosis. They can assess the extent of the condition and recommend
tailored treatment plans.
In Closing
Endometriosis
requires dedicated management to prevent its spread and minimize symptoms. If
you suspect you may have endometriosis or experience worsening symptoms, please
seek medical advice promptly.
Don’t
let endometriosis control your life—schedule a consultation today to take the
first step towards managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life!
Call or visit us at;
Dr
Ma Li Clinic For Women & Advanced Pelvic Surgery - Gynaecologist |
Endometriosis Singapore
3
Mount Elizabeth, #09-08 Medical Centre,
Singapore
228510
+65
6022 0933
