Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: Laparoscopic surgery was performed in April 2004, and it has now recurred. Another surgery is required. Currently, consultation is sought on how to prevent recurrence after surgery?Current general condition: Occasional lower abdominal pain
Medical history: Approximately two years
Previous diagnosis, treatment history, and outcomes:
Doctor's answer:
Hello, the endometrium is the tissue lining the inside of the uterus. Endometriosis refers to the abnormal growth and proliferation of endometrial tissue in places where it should not grow. During menstruation, this layer of tissue may sometimes bleed or secrete foreign substances into surrounding tissues, and any area of tissue proliferation can cause severe pain. It may grow outside the uterus, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or in the abdominal cavity, but this pain does not necessarily correlate with the menstrual cycle—it can occur at any time. The pain caused by endometritis varies among women, entirely depending on the location of tissue proliferation. Symptoms include cramps and abdominal pain, lower back pain, and dyspareunia (pain during intercourse). For some women, infertility and severe or irregular bleeding are associated with endometriosis. Endometriosis is never a condition that can be cured in the short term, but there are some methods that may help alleviate pain:Warm compress: Place a warm bag on your abdomen: "Warm the abdomen to a comfortable temperature, with the duration depending on individual needs."
Maintain physical activity: Exercise can help treat endometriosis, but evidence suggests that women who exercise regularly are less likely to develop endometriosis. You can try floor exercises, stretching, cycling, or other activities that do not put excessive strain on the body.
Pay attention to your diet: Drink more water, reduce dairy consumption, and limit meat intake.
Supplement with B vitamins: B vitamins can help the liver metabolize more effectively to eliminate excess estrogen.
Eat more fish: A diet rich in fish oil is very helpful in relieving endometriosis pain. Fish oil is believed to stimulate the body to produce prostaglandins that do not cause pain.
Use over-the-counter natural progesterone cream (e.g., ProGest): Apply 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the cream to soft areas of the body three times a day. You can also massage the face, neck, inner thighs, inner arms, and chest. Natural progesterone helps counteract the effects of excess estrogen in the body. For example, you can start applying the cream one to two weeks before your period and continue until the end of the menstrual cycle.
Medication relief: Over-the-counter medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or aspirin, can be taken. Always follow the instructions when taking any over-the-counter medication, so remember to check the product label or ask a pharmacist for the appropriate dosage.