Dr Bhavini Shah, GP for LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, explains the signs and symptoms of endometriosis and shares how the contraceptive pill can be used as a treatment option.
Dr Bhavini Shah, GP for LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, said: “Around 1.5 million people in the UK suffer from endometriosis, according to Endometriosis UK. That’s why it’s so important to raise awareness for this common condition with events such as Endometriosis Awareness Month so more people can recognise the signs and symptoms and understand how they can seek treatment.
What is endometriosis?
“Endometriosis is a condition where similar cells to those found in the uterus are elsewhere in the body. Similar to a period, the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle cause these cells to build up and break down, however the blood has no way of exiting the body, resulting in pain, inflammation and even scarring.
“The actual cause of endometriosis is unknown. There are several theories about the cause of endometriosis, but none fully explains why endometriosis occurs.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in your lower tummy
- Period pain that stops you doing your normal activities
- Pain before or after sex
- Pain, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea when using the toilet on your period
- Blood in your wee or poo during your period
- Difficulty getting pregnant.
“You should speak to your GP if you’re experiencing these symptoms. You may be recommended treatments if your doctor believes that you have endometriosis or you may be referred onto a gynaecologist who can help you further.
How can I treat endometriosis?
“There’s currently no cure for endometriosis but there are options that can help you manage your symptoms.
“The treatment of endometriosis depends on a variety of factors, including: the type and severity of your symptoms, how much endometriosis you have, and where it is, whether you are planning a pregnancy, whether you wish to use contraception, and your personal preferences for treatment.
“You may be offered a combination of medical, hormonal and surgical treatments.”
Can the pill help treat endometriosis?
“Hormonal contraception can be helpful in managing endometriosis. The hormones in the combined pill cause the uterus lining to become thinner, causing periods to become shorter and lighter, helping to reduce endometriosis symptoms.
“The mini pill (progesterone-only pill) is thought to relieve the symptoms of endometriosis by suppressing the growth of endometriosis deposits and may also reduce endometriosis-induced inflammation.
“Your doctor will work with you to find the best treatment method for your circumstances.”
What else can the pill be used to treat?
Alongside endometriosis, the contraceptive pill can help improve a number of hormone related conditions.
In a recent survey, LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor asked 500 adult British women about common hormonal symptoms and their views on using contraceptive pills to mitigate these issues.
Cramps
“The combined pill has been shown to alleviate cramping and period pain. By preventing ovulation, the uterus lining does not thicken and may help to reduce the chance of you experiencing cramps.
“We surveyed 500 women and found that only 7% have never experienced menstrual cramps or period pain before, with 29% reporting that they experience them intensely every month. We also found that two in five women (40%) have considered taking the contraceptive pill to prevent cramps and period pain.”
PMS
“Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is characterised by experiencing distressing symptoms in the lead up to your period. Symptoms usually include mood swings, anxiety, irritability, nausea, headaches, bloating and breast tenderness. It’s thought around 40% of British women experience PMS.
“Though the cause of PMS is not known precisely, it is thought to be due to sensitivity to the fluctuation of hormones just before your period. When using the combined pill, hormone levels are more balanced, steadying oestrogen and progesterone levels.
Acne and skin
“If you suffer from acne, the combined pill may be able to help you. Many people who get spots suffer from hormonal acne – where changing hormones produces a buildup of sebum, blocking hair follicles and creating a spot.
“Our survey found that one in six women would consider using the contraceptive pill to reduce acne or improve their skin.
“Co-cyprindiol is most commonly prescribed for acne, often known as Dianette or Clairette. Many women also see results whilst taking Yasmin or Lucette. It usually takes 2-6 months to notice an improvement in your skin after starting the combined pill so it may take some patience.”
Hirsutism
“An uncommon use of the contraceptive pill is to reduce unwanted body hair, a condition which affects 5-15% of pre-menopausal adult women.
“The combined pill reduces the amount of circulating free androgens and may help to reduce hirsutism.”
PCOS
“Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 10% of women and can cause irregular periods, excessive production of androgens (‘male’ hormones), and polycystic ovaries.
“While there is no cure for PCOS, the pill can help alleviate symptoms. The combined pill can help regulate periods for people with PCOS and can also reduce the risk of developing endometrial cancer, even after you’ve stopped taking it.”