WHAT ARE ENDOMETRIAL CYSTS?

The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus that grows every month to prepare for the pregnancy and sheds subsequently when the female doesn’t conceive. Sometimes the endometrial cells can grow anywhere outside the uterus without any known cause; it is called endometriosis. Locations of growth of ectopic endometrial cells can be fallopian tubes, urinary bladder, or in the abdominal lining.

When the endometrial cells get to the ovaries, they form cysts or lumps and the size may vary from less than 2” up to 8”. The endometrial cysts are also known as endometriomas.

Endometrial cysts can cause pelvic pain, infertility, and ovarian functions are also compromised. 

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF ENDOMETRIAL CYSTS?

Although the exact cause of endometrial cysts is unknown as to how the endometrial cells reach the ovaries, retrograde menstruation can be a possible explanation in which the menstrual blood instead of flowing out; flows back to the fallopian tubes and reach the ovaries.

Other possible causes include hormone-induced changes in the cell types and surgery.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR AN ENDOMETRIAL CYST?

There are several factors that can be associated with the development of ectopic endometrial cells in the ovaries:

• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Short menstrual cycle
• High estrogen levels in the body
• Never having children
• Early menarche and menopause
• Surgery of abdomen (pelvic)
• Family history of endometriosis

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ENDOMETRIAL CYSTS?

Common signs and symptoms of endometrial cysts are:

• Painful periods
• Infertility
• Painful sex
• Pain while passing stool and while urinating
• Heavy bleeding during menses
• Soreness in the pelvic region

WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OF ENDOMETRIAL CYSTS?

The usual complication of endometrial cysts is infertility. The cyst is watched over time for growth as big sized cyst can cause ovarian torsion as well.

HOW TO DIAGNOSE ENDOMETRIAL CYSTS?

Usually, the endometrial cysts can be diagnosed with a clinical history and pelvic examination. To confirm the diagnosis imaging of the abdomen is done ( ultrasonography, MRI). 

WHAT ARE THE AVAILABLE TREATMENTS FOR ENDOMETRIAL CYSTS?

Endometrial cysts are generally watched for growth over a period of time. Surgery can be done for the removal of the cyst but they have a high recurrence rate so surgery is not a fruitful option. 

HOMEOPATHY ON THE OTHER HAND IS A GOOD ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT METHOD FOR ENDOMETRIAL CYSTS.