Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a disease where endometrial tissue is present outside of the uterus. The location of the tissue varies from on the ovaries, uterus wall, peritoneal cavity, and can migrate onto the bladder or other organs. The presence of this tissue causes cramping, pain with bowel movements and sex, and irregularities in periods. This disease can severely impact an individual's life experience and ability to conceive.
Symptoms
Endometriosis varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience the range of symptoms throughout their entire menstrual cycle, some only a couple, and some none at all. This variation can make diagnostics difficult, as there is no set standard. However, knowing these symptoms is the first step to helping a patient get a treatment plan to alleviate their discomfort.
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Heavy Periods
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Dizziness
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Cramping
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Constipation
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Painful Intercourse
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Intermenstrual Bleeding
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Painful Urination
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Fertility Issues
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Endometriosis in Adolescents
Endometriosis in adolescents is a topic that can often go unnoticed because of the normalization of pain experienced during menstruation. Oftentimes, adolescents also have an inability to advocate for themselves in a medical environment. The process of diagnosing can take upwards of 8 years. This duration can be longer if severe symptoms are experienced soon after an individual's first menstrual cycle and they do not have proper advocacy.
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For medical students and clinicians, education can be inadequate or difficult to find. Using educational resources specific to adolescent care can greatly benefit the patient's endometriosis journey.
Long-term Effects of Endometriosis
Adolescents, age 10-19, are at a stage in life full of key developmental landmarks. Experiencing severe pain and symptoms can disrupt an individual's ability to experience key life events that can impact their future. Missing school, extracurricular activities, social events, and opportunities to be involved in community due to menstrual pain can lead to feelings of isolation and a disrupted life path. As an individual in healthcare, it is important to understand the adolescent endometriosis experience to best serve them so that they may be set up for success.