Dr. Andrea Salcedo DO, MPH, FACOG, shares her dissappointment with routine gynecologic care.
In this video, Dr Andrea Salcedo talks about her personal struggles through endometriosis, gestational diabetes and infertility. She shares how insulin resistance and body inflammation contributed to her gynecologic problems, and that birth control pills or surgery couldn’t treat the cause.
Endomitriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to pain, inflammation, and potential fertility issues. Commonly affected areas include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining, though it can also impact the bladder, bowel, and, in rare cases, the lungs or other organs.
Symptoms vary but often involve severe menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse (dyspareunia), and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or constipation. Fatigue, heavy or irregular periods, and urinary discomfort are also frequent. The severity of symptoms doesn’t always correlate with the extent of the disease; some individuals with minimal tissue growth experience intense pain, while others with extensive growth may have mild symptoms.
The exact cause remains unclear, but theories include retrograde menstruation, genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, and immune system dysfunction. Genetics play a significant role, with individuals having a first-degree relative with endometriosis facing a six-fold increased risk. Environmental factors and estrogen exposure also contribute to disease development.
Diagnosis is challenging, often delayed by years due to symptom overlap with other conditions and the need for surgical confirmation via laparoscopy. Non-invasive imaging like transvaginal ultrasound and MRI can aid in detection, especially for deep infiltrating endometriosis.
While there’s no cure, management focuses on symptom relief and fertility preservation. Treatment options include pain relievers, hormonal therapies to suppress estrogen production, and surgical interventions to remove endometrial-like tissue. In severe cases, hysterectomy may be considered.
Globally, endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, equating to around 190 million individuals. The condition imposes significant economic burdens due to healthcare costs and lost productivity. Public awareness and early diagnosis are crucial for effective management and improving quality of life for those affected.