Early Detection of Endometriosis: Insights from a Gynecologist on Subtle Symptoms
In the realm of women's health, understanding and early detection play crucial roles in managing conditions such as endometriosis and breast cancer.
Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual, taking into account the patient's symptoms, severity, and goals. This personalized approach is essential in addressing these health issues effectively.
Breast cancer, a significant concern for many women, claims more than 44,000 lives annually in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Screening, early detection, and treatment are key to surviving breast cancer. October, observed as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, serves as a reminder for regular check-ups and self-examinations.
Endometriosis, a common but often overlooked health condition, doesn't always present with obvious signs. This silent condition can lead to internal damage and fertility issues, often discovered only during surgeries or fertility assessments.
Recognizing subtle symptoms like pain during or after intercourse, discomfort with bowel movements or urination, infertility, bloating, nausea, heavy or irregular periods can lead to earlier detection and treatment. Less apparent symptoms include mood changes, fatigue, brain fog, pain during or after sex, heavy or painful periods, pain with urination, and lower back pain.
Dr. Sondra Lee, an OB/GYN physician, encourages women to better understand endometriosis and discuss persistent symptoms with their doctor. Dr. Lee urges women to track their symptoms, document pain levels, and not accept severe period pain as being normal.
In the fight against breast cancer, Kaiser Permanente offers women's health services. Members can visit kp.org or call 1-833-574-2273 to learn more about these services or to schedule an appointment with a Kaiser Permanente gynecologist.
Treatment approaches for endometriosis have evolved significantly, with multiple ways to address it, including medication and minimally invasive procedures.
Many women hesitate to discuss endometriosis symptoms with their doctors due to unnecessary embarrassment. It's important to remember that open communication with healthcare providers is vital for timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment.
The articles presented in Los Cerritos Community News are related to breast cancer awareness, prevention, and survival. They are categorized under "Health" to provide valuable information and resources for readers.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Endometriosis. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355746
[2] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Endometriosis. [online] Available at: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/endometriosis
[3] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Endometriosis. [online] Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/women/menstrual-cyclerelated-disorders/endometriosis
[4] Endometriosis Foundation of America. (2021). About Endometriosis. [online] Available at: https://www.endofound.org/about-endometriosis
[5] Endometriosis UK. (2021). Symptoms. [online] Available at: https://endometriosis-uk.org/information-and-support/endometriosis-and-you/symptoms/
- Encouraging prompt detection and treatment, articles in Los Cerritos Community News offer insights on women's health, including endometriosis, breast cancer, and health-and-wellness, under the "Health" news category.
- To better manage conditions such as endometriosis and breast cancer, it's essential to recognize symptoms like heavy periods, pain during intercourse, or infertility, and to engage in open dialogues about these issues with healthcare providers.
