Endometriosis affects millions of women worldwide, leading to pelvic pain, menstrual irregularities, and fertility challenges. A common question is whether endometriosis worsens with age. Understanding how the condition progresses can help you manage it effectively.
How Endometriosis Changes Over Time
Endometriosis doesn’t necessarily worsen for everyone, but in some women, symptoms can become more severe with age. Hormonal fluctuations, untreated endometrial growth, and the formation of scar tissue (adhesions) can contribute to a progression of the condition.
Factors That Can Worsen Endometriosis:
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuating estrogen levels during reproductive years can fuel the growth of endometrial lesions.
- Lack of Treatment: Untreated endometriosis can result in larger lesions, ovarian cysts, and the formation of adhesions.
- Scar Tissue Formation: Adhesions between pelvic organs can cause chronic pain and restrict organ mobility.
Does Menopause Improve Symptoms?
Menopause often brings relief, as estrogen levels decrease, which can slow the growth of endometrial tissue. However, some women may continue to experience symptoms post-menopause, particularly if they use hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Managing Endometriosis as You Age
To effectively manage endometriosis as you age:
- Hormonal Therapies: Medications like birth control pills or GnRH agonists can help slow the progression of endometrial growth.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: For severe cases, minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery led by Dr. Surakshith Battina at Indigo Women’s Center can remove lesions and scar tissue, offering long-term relief from pain and discomfort.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can help alleviate symptoms.
- Regular Monitoring: Ongoing check-ups with a gynecologist are essential to manage symptoms as they evolve over time.
Endometriosis can worsen with age for some women, but with proper management, its progression can be controlled. If you’re concerned about how endometriosis is affecting your health, our expert team, led by Dr. Surakshith Battina, specializes in advanced laparoscopic surgery to provide personalized care and treatment options.