Examining Kate’s 1%
She has suspected endometriosis. This affects at least 1 in 10 women, likely more.
Here she’s getting an ultrasound.
Historically you needed surgery just to diagnose it (incisions are made in the abdomen). We're doing a non-invasive route.
Typically women live with endometriosis for 7-10 years before being diagnosed. It’s the leading reason women aged 30 to 34 get hysterectomies (permanent surgery to entirely remove the uterus).
This condition is where endometrial-like tissue starts growing outside the uterus, in ovaries, bowel, bladder, even the diaphragm. This tissue inflames, scars, and glues organs together.
Our first step is to find out if Kate has it.
Initial measurements we’re doing:
+ trans vaginal ultrasound
+ pelvic MRI w and w/o contrast
+ hormonal labs
All during the early part of her cycle to get the clearest picture.
During her ultrasound, a slim probe, about the width of two fingers, 10-12 inches long (although only a small portion is inserted) is covered with a protective sheath and lubricant and gently inserted into the vagina (patient has to empty their bladder first). This creates real-time images of the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures. While inserted, the probe is turned 90 degrees to evaluate all the various structures, angles and views. There is no radiation exposure.
The technician is looking for scarring, ovarian cysts, adhesions, and for organs that are fused together with tissue. This ultrasound can confirm endometriosis but it cannot rule it out.
What endo does to the body:
+ 90% report pelvic pain
+ 50% report severe fatigue
+ 26% report infertility. However many sources cite 30 to 50 percent.
+ 50% experience pain during sex.
+ Many have pain with ovulation, bowel movements, and urination
+ Severe bloating called “endo belly” where the abdomen visibly distends
There are a handful of theories about why endometriosis develops but the honest answer is no one is quite sure.
We’ll keep you posted on her results.
