Best Endometriosis Doctors in Mumbai

Endometriosis is condition where the tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus, known as endometrium, abnormally grows outside the uterus. This irregular growth can occur on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and on the tissue lining the pelvis. In very rare cases, it can spread beyond the pelvic organs. This aberrant tissue behaves like the endometrium, thickening and breaking down with each menstrual cycle. However, unlike the regular uterine lining, this irregular growth has no outlet for expulsion and can therefore lead to several problems like severe pain, fertility issues, and at times, even organ damage. Factors such as genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance and immune system disorders may make one susceptible to endometriosis.

Mumbai’s fast-paced lifestyle and the increasing stress levels among its populace is believed to exacerbate some of the factors that can potentially lead to conditions like endometriosis. Fortunately, Apollo Hospitals Mumbai hosts some of the country’s best specialists in endometriosis. These endometriosis surgeons are well-trained and equipped to provide comprehensive treatment to their patients.

Types/Stages of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is generally categorised into four stages, depending on its severity:

• Stage I (Minimal): This stage is characterised by the presence of small patches or lesions very close to the surface of the tissues. 

• Stage II (Mild): In this stage, there are more lesions than in stage 1 and these lesions tend to be located deeper inside the tissue.

• Stage III (Moderate): The moderate stage is marked by deep implants and small cysts on either one ovary or both ovaries.

• Stage IV (Severe): The fourth stage is the most severe form of endometriosis and it is characterised by multiple implants, adhesions and large ovarian cysts

  Symptoms of Endometriosis

  The symptoms of endometriosis can vary from individual to individual. Some of the common symptoms of endometriosis are:

• Extremely painful periods marked by severe abdominal cramping

• Pain during or after sexual intercourse

• Excessive bleeding or spotting between periods

• Abdominal, lower back and pelvic pain

• Reduced fertility

Tests to Diagnose Endometriosis

The best doctors for the treatment of endometriosis often combine  symptom assessment and medical tests to diagnose the condition. These may include:

•  Pelvic examination: To feel for abnormalities in the pelvis and the lower abdomen.

• Ultrasound: To give a visual representation of the uterus and its surrounding structures.

• MRI: This scan allows the specialists for endometriosis to get a detailed image of all the pelvic compartments .

• Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure to view and sample endometrial tissue.

  Treatment or Surgery Options for Endometriosis at Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai

 Apollo Hospitals provide a comprehensive range of treatment options to patients suffering from endometriosis. The endometriosis specialist decides the treatment plan based on the severity of symptoms and the individual's personal circumstances. These generally include:

• Pain medication: Pain medications for endometriosis primarily include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps and pelvic pain.

• Hormonal therapy: This includes administering contraceptives or hormone suppressing agents to reduce or halt the growth of endometrial implants.

• Conservative surgery: This involves removing or destroying only the endometriosis tissues, while preserving the uterus and the ovaries

• Hysterectomy: In severe cases where other treatments have been ineffective, the endometriosis surgeon may consider removing the uterus and  perhaps even the ovaries.