Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder that affects many women worldwide. This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, known as endometrium, grows outside the uterus. To shed light on this often-misunderstood condition, we will delve into what endometriosis is, its risk factors, and the symptoms women may experience. Endometriosis is a chronic condition where endometrial-like tissue implants itself on organs within the pelvic region, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and intestines. Unlike the normal endometrial tissue that sheds during menstruation, these implants have no means of exit, leading to inflammation, scarring, and the formation of adhesions.

Several factors may increase a woman’s susceptibility to developing endometriosis, including:

• Family History: Having a first-degree relative with endometriosis elevates the risk.
• Early Menarche: Starting menstruation at an early age.
• Menstrual Flow Abnormalities: Experiencing heavy or prolonged periods.
• Reproductive Disorders: Conditions like uterine abnormalities or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Immunological Dysfunction: Weakened immune response allowing endometrial tissue to implant and grow. The symptoms of endometriosis can vary from woman to woman, with some experiencing severe pain while others may have minimal discomfort.

Common symptoms include:

• Pelvic Pain: Chronic pelvic pain that may worsen during menstruation.
• Painful Periods: Intense cramping and lower back pain during menstruation.
• Painful Intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Bowel or urinary disturbances, such as diarrhea, constipation, or painful bowel movements.
• Infertility: Difficulties conceiving due to scarring and adhesions affecting the reproductive organs.

Endometriosis is a complex condition requiring a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment approach. Identifying the risk factors associated with endometriosis and recognizing its symptoms is crucial to seeking appropriate care. If you suspect you have endometriosis or are experiencing symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide the guidance and support needed to manage this condition effectively. In the Cayman Islands, women with endometriosis can access various treatment options tailored to their needs. At Integra Healthcare a team of senior, tertiary, OB/GYNs are passionate about identifying endometriosis and providing endometriosis care & treatment for a condition that causes so many women a distressing set of symptoms. For more information on our services click here.

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are noncancerous growths that develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. While they are generally harmless, they can cause many women a range of symptoms and discomfort.

We will explore the signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids, shedding light on this common condition that affects numerous women worldwide.

1. Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding:

One of the most common symptoms associated with uterine fibroids is heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Women with fibroids may experience longer-lasting periods with increased blood flow, often resulting in the need to change sanitary products frequently. This excessive bleeding can lead to fatigue and anemia over time.

2. Pelvic Pain and Pressure:

Uterine fibroids can cause pelvic pain and pressure due to their size and location. Depending on their place within the uterus, fibroids may exert pressure* on nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum, leading to discomfort or feeling of fullness in the pelvic region. Some women may also experience lower back pain or pain during sexual intercourse.

*Pelvic pain and pressure could potentially also be a sign of an ovarian cyst. View more on ovarian cysts and their symptoms in our article here.

3. Urinary and Bowel Problems:

Larger fibroids that press against the bladder can cause frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder, resulting in a frequent urge to urinate or an increased frequency of urinary tract infections. Fibroids near the rectum can create pressure, leading to constipation or difficulty with bowel movements.

4. Abdominal Enlargement and Swelling:

In some cases, uterine fibroids can cause the abdomen to appear enlarged or swollen. This symptom is more common in women with multiple or larger fibroids. As fibroids grow in size, they can give the abdomen a distended appearance, resembling a pregnancy.

5. Menstrual Irregularities:

Apart from heavy bleeding, uterine fibroids can also cause menstrual irregularities. Some women may experience shorter or longer menstrual cycles, irregular bleeding between periods, or missed periods. These changes in menstrual patterns are often attributed to hormonal imbalances caused by fibroids.

Get in touch

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids is crucial for early detection and appropriate management. If you have experienced any of the symptoms mentioned above or suspect you may have uterine fibroids, book a consultation with your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Remember, while uterine fibroids can cause discomfort, various treatment options are available to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.

To book an appointment with our highly trained and experienced gynaecology team, visit their services page here or call (345) 745-7450.

References:

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Uterine fibroids – Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/symptoms-causes/syc-20354288.

There has been an upturn in talk in the last month about menopause and breaking the stigma of discussing the topic, which we’re delighted with! Here at Integra Healthcare, we aim to recognise it, join the efforts to destigmatize it and more openly discuss it. This article below offers an overview of menopause and the main symptoms.

Menopause: An Overview

Menopause is said to have occurred when a woman has stopped menstruating for 12 continuous months as a result of lowering oestrogen levels. It can take up to 10 years to reach this point. This a period of time is known as perimenopause, in which many women start to show menopause symptoms. It is around the age 50 (median age is 51 years old) when a woman begins to experience menopause symptoms, but a small percentage of women experience it earlier, from age 40 onwards.

Signs & Symptoms

There are a plethora of menopause symptoms however, the most common symptoms consist of:

• Body odour
• Breast tenderness and loss of breast fullness
• Burning mouth sensation, and dry mouth
• Dental problems & metallic taste in the mouth
• Hair loss or thinning hair
• Dry skin
• Itching
• Vaginal dryness and itching
• Fatigue and inability to concentrate
• Sleep problems or insomnia
• Mood changes
• Chills
• Night sweats
• Irregular periods and/ or skipped periods
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism

Questions or concerns over menopause symptoms?

Many women are concerned with the symptoms that cause more feelings of distress or disrupt daily life such as experience fatigue. More recently, there are more concerns from research suggesting women who have two or more serious menopause symptoms are at greater risk for heart disease and stroke. Apart from this the loss of oestrogen production can also lead to other health issues, some of which can be quite serious.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have any questions or concerns, it is recommended that you speak to your gynaecologist. Both myself, Dr Lisa Joels, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and my colleague, Dr Madhavi Manoharan, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist (OBGYN) are experienced menopause doctors, working from our dedicated Women’s Health Suite here at the Grand Pavilion in the Cayman Islands. A lot of the time, women would not think there would be a relation to menopause with the symptoms above until they begin to notice irregularities in their periods, emphasising the need for greater awareness of menopause, what it can involve and to reach out for more information and support.

Every woman’s experience with menopause differs, with some being asymptomatic and others having many symptoms which occur frequently and are quite severe.

Menopause Care Cayman Islands