What is endometriosis and how is it treated? UAE doctors explain myths and diagnoses
From diagnosis delays to treatment, UAE specialists break down a misunderstood condition
Dubai: Endometriosis affects millions of women worldwide, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and underdiagnosed conditions in women's health. March is about Endometriosis awareness and we spoke to two UAE-based specialists to break down what it is, how it is treated, and how to have better conversations with your doctor.
What is endometriosis?
Dr Sandip Sonara, Specialist Gynaecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon and Master Surgeon of Endometriosis at Medcare Women and Children Hospital, explains it as "a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins to grow outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the lining of the pelvis."
This tissue behaves just like the uterine lining, thickening and bleeding during the menstrual cycle. But because it sits outside the uterus, it has nowhere to go. "This can lead to inflammation, pain, and formation of scar tissue," says Dr Sonara, adding that factors such as "backward flow of menstrual blood, genetics, disturbed immune responses, and hormones are believed to play a role."
Does it increase the risk of cancer?
Both doctors agree the risk is low. Dr Benu Majeed, Specialist Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Aster Hospital Qusais, notes that "only about 0.5 to 1 per cent of women with endometriosis will develop cancer from it," with ovarian cancer being the most common in those rare cases.
Dr Sonara adds that "the main concerns with endometriosis are related to pain, inflammation, and in all cases, its irreversible impact on fertility rather than cancer development."
Only about 0.5 to 1 per cent of women with endometriosis will develop cancer from itDr Benu Majeed, Specialist Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aster Hospital, Qusais
What are the treatment options?
Treatment is highly personalised. As Dr Majeed puts it, "the right option depends on your symptoms, age, and whether you want to get pregnant." Both doctors outline the main options:
Pain relief: Over-the-counter painkillers for managing day-to-day symptoms
Hormonal therapy: The most common treatment, including birth control pills, progesterone-only treatments, hormonal IUDs and GnRH agonists given as monthly injections or daily tablets
Surgery: For severe cases not responding to medication, Dr Sonara recommends complete excision surgery via laparoscopy, which he describes as a procedure that "allows doctors to both confirm the diagnosis and remove visible lesions and scar tissue." A hysterectomy is considered only as a last resort
Fertility treatments: For those trying to conceive, options include ovulation stimulation and IVF
Lifestyle support: Regular exercise, heat therapy, an anti-inflammatory diet and stress management can all help ease symptoms, though as Dr Majeed notes, "these don't cure it but can help symptoms"
Dr Sonara also stresses that "ongoing care and regular follow-up are often advised to reduce the recurrence and prevention."
Persistent pain is not something that should simply be endured. Early conversations and timely care can greatly improve quality of lifeDr. Sandip Sonara - Specialist Gynaecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon and Master Surgeon of Endometriosis at Medcare Women & Children Hospital
How to talk to your doctor
Women with endometriosis are frequently dismissed or misdiagnosed, and many develop anxiety around seeking medical help. Dr Sonara advises that "clear and open communication can make a meaningful difference," and recommends patients:
Describe how pain affects daily life, work, sleep and normal activities
Keep a record of symptoms including timing, severity and any patterns
Speak up if something feels different from typical menstrual discomfort or if symptoms are worsening
Seek a second opinion if concerns are not being addressed
Dr Majeed also cautions that "not all pain is related to endometriosis," and that other gynaecological conditions need to be ruled out through a detailed examination and ultrasound before a confirmed diagnosis can be made. "Since it is a progressive condition," he adds, "long-term medications are needed. There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can be controlled."
The bigger picture
Dr Sonara sums it up clearly: "Persistent pain is not something that should simply be endured. Early conversations and timely care can greatly improve quality of life." Endometriosis affects not only physical health but overall wellbeing, and with the right combination of treatments, symptoms can be effectively managed over the long term.
Areeba Hashmi is a trainee at Gulf News.
