Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining is found outside of the uterus. Cases of endometriosis have been documented on every organ of the body. It is estimated that about 200 million people worldwide suffer with endometriosis. There is no cure. There are treatment options, but there is no guarantee they will decrease pain and symptoms. There are many myths that people who hear the word ‘endometriosis’ may believe.
Myth #1: Endometriosis is Caused by Retrograde Menstruation
Endometriosis is NOT caused by retrograde menstruation. If this were true, patients who take medications that suppress their ovaries and don’t have a period would find symptom relief. Many patients who take these types of medications report an increase in symptoms that have lasting affects.
Myth #2: All Techniques for Removing Endometriosis are Created Equal
All techniques for removing endometriosis are NOT created equal. Ablation is burning the disease. Excision is cutting the disease. Ablation leads to a higher rate of scar tissue formation and less likely to provide pain and symptom relief. Excision is performed by a skilled endometriosis specialist who has spent countless hours training in endometriosis. Many gynecologists operate on patients, but know little about the disease and more than likely use ablation.
Myth #3: Obstetricians/Gynecologists are Equipped to Operate on Patients with Endometriosis
All obstetricians/gynecologists are not equipped to operate on patients with endometriosis or suspected disease. Obstetricians spend countless hours delivering babies. They may have had one lecture in endometriosis during medical school. Gynecologists specialize in reproductive health and organs. Their main concern is patients having children. Endometriosis is a body wide disease that affects more than one system.
Myth #4: Hysterectomy Cures Endometriosis
If a hysterectomy cures endometriosis, so many of us who have the disease wouldn’t still be suffering in pain and still experiencing other symptoms. Removing an organ/organs doesn’t remove the disease. If a hysterectomy helps a patient, it may be because they have adenomyosis, which differs from endometriosis. A hysterectomy does NOT cure endometriosis.
Myth #5: Endometriosis is Just a Bad Period
Endometriosis is NOT just a bad period. If this were true, patients who have had a hysterectomy or don’t have a uterus and ovaries would have relief because they don’t have a period. If this were true, patients with a uterus and ovaries would only have pain when they are having their period. Many patients report having pain most of the month and every day.
It is crucial that patients do their own research to determine what treatment options are best for them.
In Living with Endometriosis, you will find information about endometriosis as well as my journey with the disease. My story, as well as so many others, debunk these myths. In the Living with Endometriosis Workbook and Daily Journal, you will find pages to help you keep track of your menstrual cycle, pain levels, food, as well as doctor appointments, tests you’ve had done, and more.
Author and endometriosis patient Samantha Bowick has written other articles revolving around important questions and information about endometriosis. She is the author of Living with Endometriosis: The Complete Guide to Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment Options and Living with Endometriosis Workbook and Daily Journal.
Samantha Bowick has a Master of Public Health degree from Liberty University and a Master of Legal Studies in Health Care Law from the University of Oklahoma. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Administration at Columbia Southern University. She is devoted to using her education and experiences to advocate for women who suffer with endometriosis. Samantha is the owner of Chronic Illness Support, LLC and a board certified patient advocate. She is also a receptionist at a local law office. She currently lives in Aiken, South Carolina.
