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Hormone therapy type matters for memory performance after menopause

Hormone therapy type matters for memory performance after menopause

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This is a complex and actively researched area, and the short answer is: Yes, different types of hormone therapy (HT) can have different effects on memory and cognitive function after menopause, but the picture is nuanced and depends heavily on timing, type, and individual factors.

The old, simplified view was that HT might protect the brain. Then, the landmark Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study in the early 2000s suggested it increased the risk of dementia. Now, research has evolved to a more sophisticated understanding, often called the “Timing Hypothesis.”

Here’s a breakdown of how different factors in hormone therapy influence memory.

1. The Critical Factor: Timing of Initiation (The “Critical Window” or “Timing Hypothesis”)

This is the most important concept. The brain is rich in estrogen receptors, and estrogen has neuroprotective effects.

  • Initiation During Perimenopause or Early Postmenopause (The “Window”): The strongest evidence suggests that starting HT around the time of menopause (within 5-10 years) may have neutral or potentially beneficial effects on certain aspects of memory, particularly verbal memory. The brain is still adapting to the loss of estrogen, and introducing hormones may help maintain cognitive function.
  • Initiation Later in Life (Decades After Menopause): Starting HT many years after menopause, when the brain has already adapted to a long-term low-estrogen state, appears to be neutral or potentially harmful. The WHI study primarily involved women who were, on average, 65 years old (well past menopause), which likely skewed the results toward finding risks.

2. Type of Estrogen

The specific estrogen used matters.

  • 17-beta-estradiol: This is chemically identical to the estrogen produced by the human ovaries. It is considered the most “natural” for the body and is the type most often associated with potential cognitive benefits in the critical window. It’s available in patches, gels, and pills.
  • Conjugated Equine Estrogens (CEE): This is derived from the urine of pregnant horses and contains a mix of estrogens, some not human. This was the type used in the WHI study. Some research suggests it might have a less favorable effect on the brain compared to estradiol, though the data is mixed.

3. Route of Administration

How you take the estrogen affects how it interacts with your body and brain.

  • Transdermal (Patches, Gels, Sprays): This method delivers estrogen directly through the skin into the bloodstream. It bypasses the liver (the “first-pass” effect), leading to more stable hormone levels and avoiding the increase in clotting factors and inflammatory markers associated with oral pills. For this reason, transdermal estrogen is often preferred from a safety perspective and may be better for brain health.
  • Oral (Pills): Oral estrogen is processed by the liver first, which can lead to more metabolic side effects and fluctuations in hormone levels.

4. Presence and Type of Progestogen

For women who have a uterus, a progestogen (synthetic progesterone) or progesterone (body-identical) must be added to estrogen to protect against uterine cancer. This component significantly influences cognitive effects.

  • Progesterone (body-identical): Micronized progesterone (e.g., Prometrium) is generally considered to have a more favorable profile for the brain. It has a calming effect and may even be neuroprotective. Studies suggest it does not negate the potential cognitive benefits of estrogen and may be the safer choice.
  • Synthetic Progestins: Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), used in the WHI study, has been associated with potentially negative effects on the brain. It may counteract the beneficial effects of estrogen and increase the risk of blood clots.

Summary of Effects by Scenario

ScenarioLikely Effect on Memory/Cognition
Early Initiation (<60 yrs) + Estradiol Patch/Gel + Micronized ProgesteroneMost favorable. Likely neutral or possibly beneficial for verbal memory and executive function. Considered the “safest” regimen for brain health.
Early Initiation + Oral Estrogen + Micronized ProgesteroneLikely neutral. May still be beneficial for menopausal symptoms, but the oral route carries more metabolic risks.
Early Initiation + Any Estrogen + Synthetic Progestin (MPA)Less favorable. May negate potential benefits or slightly increase risk.
Late Initiation (>65-70 yrs) + Any HT RegimenUnfavorable. Not recommended for cognitive protection. Associated with an increased risk of dementia and stroke.

Important Caveats and Takeaways

  1. HT is Not Approved for Cognitive Protection: No hormone therapy is FDA-approved for preventing or treating memory loss or dementia. It should be prescribed primarily for managing moderate-to-severe menopausal symptoms (like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness).
  2. Individual Risk Factors Matter: A woman’s personal and family history of breast cancer, blood clots, heart disease, and stroke play a much larger role in the HT decision than cognitive effects.
  3. Lifestyle is Foundational: The best evidence for protecting your memory after menopause involves lifestyle factors: regular aerobic exercise, a heart-healthy diet (like the Mediterranean diet), quality sleep, managing stress, and staying socially and mentally active.
  4. Consult Your Doctor: This is a highly personalized decision. The best course of action is to have a detailed conversation with a healthcare provider who specializes in menopause. They can help you weigh the potential benefits for your quality of life against the risks, based on your unique health profile.

In conclusion, the type of hormone therapy matters greatly. For a woman considering HT for menopausal symptoms who is concerned about memory, the most brain-friendly approach appears to be starting early with a transdermal estradiol and micronized progesterone regimen.

Reference:

https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/home/PressRelease/5280

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4573348

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-different-types-hormone-therapy-affect-memory-after-menopause

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/menopause

Covid infection ages blood vessels, especially in women

Covid infection ages blood vessels, especially in women

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Of course. Here is a detailed explanation of that finding, broken down for clarity.

Summary Headline:

New research indicates that a COVID-19 infection can accelerate the aging of blood vessels, leading to stiffer, less flexible arteries. This effect is more pronounced in women, potentially putting them at a higher long-term risk for cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.

Detailed Breakdown:

1. What Does “Faster Blood Vessel Aging” Mean?

Our blood vessels, particularly arteries, are naturally elastic. This elasticity is crucial for cushioning the pressure of each heartbeat and ensuring smooth blood flow to organs.

  • Aging Effect: As we get older, arteries naturally become stiffer and thicker—a process known as arteriosclerosis. This is a key reason why the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke increases with age.
  • COVID’s Effect: The research suggests that SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) can damage the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels) and cause widespread inflammation. This one-two punch can accelerate the natural stiffening process, effectively making a person’s vascular system “biologically older” than their chronological age.

2. How Was This Discovered?

The key study, published in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology in 2023, measured arterial stiffness.

  • Method: Researchers used a metric called pulse-wave velocity (PWV). Essentially, they measured how quickly a pressure wave from a heartbeat travels through the arteries. Faster speed = stiffer arteries.
  • Findings: They compared people who had recovered from COVID-19 to those who had never been infected. The COVID-19 group showed significantly higher arterial stiffness, indicating older-performing blood vessels.

3. Why Is This More Pronounced in Women?

This was a surprising and critical finding of the study. The exact reasons are still being investigated, but several theories exist:

  • Hormonal Differences: Estrogen is known to have a protective effect on vascular health, promoting flexibility in blood vessels. COVID-19’s inflammatory response may disrupt this protective mechanism or cause more significant damage relative to the baseline protection.
  • Immune Response: Women typically mount a stronger and different immune response to viruses than men. While this can be beneficial for clearing the infection initially, it may also lead to a more aggressive inflammatory response that inadvertently causes more collateral damage to blood vessels.
  • Autoimmunity Link: Women are more prone to autoimmune diseases. Some aspects of Long COVID are believed to have an autoimmune component, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, including the vascular system.

4. What Are the Long-Term Implications?

This accelerated vascular aging has serious potential consequences:

  • Increased Cardiovascular Risk: It directly contributes to higher blood pressure, increased strain on the heart, and a greater risk of developing coronary artery disease, heart failure, and strokes.
  • A Key to Understanding Long COVID: This finding provides a biological explanation for some of the persistent symptoms of Long COVID, such as fatigue, chest pain, palpitations, and brain fog, which can be linked to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery.
  • Need for Proactive Monitoring: It suggests that individuals, especially women, who have had COVID-19 should be more vigilant about their cardiovascular health. This includes monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol and discussing their COVID history with their doctor.

Important Caveats and Next Steps:

  • Not Everyone Is Affected Equally: The risk likely varies based on the severity of the initial infection, pre-existing health conditions, and other factors.
  • Research is Ongoing: This is a relatively new area of study. Scientists are still working to understand how long-lasting these changes are and whether they can be reversed or slowed through medication, diet, and exercise.
  • Prevention is Key: This research underscores the importance of vaccination, which has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 and potentially its long-term vascular complications.

In conclusion, this discovery moves beyond the acute phase of COVID-19 and highlights a significant, silent long-term health threat—particularly for women—making post-COVID cardiovascular care and monitoring more important than ever.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/covid-tied-to-faster-blood-vessel-aging-especially-in-women

https://www.escardio.org/The-ESC/Press-Office/Press-releases/Covid-infection-ages-blood-vessels-especially-in-women

https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/covid-19/women-may-have-increased-risk-blood-vessel-aging-after-covid

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250819/COVID-19-ages-arteries-prematurely-with-women-most-affected.aspx

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/womens-health

2 servings of mangoes a day may support postmenopausal heart health

2 servings of mangoes a day may support postmenopausal heart health

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Eating 2 servings of mangoes daily may benefit heart health in postmenopausal women, according to research. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition (2022) found that consuming mangoes (about 330g/day for 8 weeks) improved vascular function and reduced blood pressure in this group.

Potential Heart Health Benefits:

Rich in Polyphenols – Mangoes contain mangiferin, quercetin, and gallic acid, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Supports Blood Pressure – The study noted a reduction in systolic blood pressure after mango consumption.
Fiber & Potassium – Helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
May Improve Endothelial Function – Enhances blood vessel flexibility, promoting better circulation.

How to Incorporate 2 Servings?

  • 1 serving = ~1 cup (165g) fresh mango
  • Add to smoothies, salads, yogurt, or enjoy as a snack.

Considerations:

  • Mangoes are moderate in sugar, so those with diabetes should monitor intake.
  • More long-term studies are needed to confirm these effects.

Reference:

https://www.drugtopics.com/view/mangos-may-help-support-postmenopausal-heart-metabolic-health

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/food/healthy-eating/a64981266/mango-health-benefits-postmenopause

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/2-servings-mangoes-daily-may-support-postmenopausal-heart-health-cholesterol

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/menopause

Sexual Dysfunction History

Sexual Dysfunction History

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Older ideas about the harmful effects of sin, guilt, bad habits, or evil spells on sexual function in both men and women have been replaced by the medicalization of sexuality, but these viewpoints are still prevalent today. In reality, many different theories are used to explain sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction, and biological reasoning is just one of them.

Sexual dysfunction in men
Maintaining a level of male sexual function that is acceptable is crucial in today’s societies. Even though ejaculation disorders and low libido are included in the category of sexual dysfunction in men, erectile dysfunction which is the inability to maintain an erection was the most common issue from antiquity until the present.

Penetration was a sign of manhood and a requirement for a positive reputation in the Greek and Roman conceptions of sexuality. As a result, medical professionals who were impacted offered recipes for healing substances, and pornographic writers created humorous tales about men who didn’t pass the important test. To combat, treat, and explain male sexual dysfunction, philosophers of the 18th century accepted the idea that men and women have different sexual spheres. However, even though this significant issue could not be disregarded, the nineteenth-century culture that insisted on privacy found discussion of such topics repugnant.

During that time, the writers of middle-class marriage guides popularized the idea of the “spermatic economy,” which holds that excesses cause a loss of masculine strength and endurance, which can eventually lead to impotence. Additionally emphasized were the risks of spermatorrhea, prostitution, masturbation, and STDs. Early in the 20th century, theories of male sexual dysfunction shifted from moral to psychological. Impotence was recognized as a problem for both men and women following World War II, and the development of the field of endocrinology in the 1920s validated the scientific study of the male reproductive system.

Numerous historians assert that sex therapy, psychoanalysis, and even surgery have been totally overtaken by Viagra (sildenafil). The Food and Drug Administration authorized the first oral treatment for erectile dysfunction in 1998. It was created at Pfizer Laboratories essentially by accident. Whether the ensuing impotence medications actually transformed sexuality is still up for debate.

Sexual dysfunction in women
The recognition of this kind of issue dates back further, even though the term “female sexual dysfunction” was only recently introduced to the medical literature. The diagnosis of nymphomania was not unusual even in the 16th century, and the Victorian era saw a notable rise in the proportion of women suffering from this illness. New theories of sexual dysfunction emerged as a result of the psychiatric and sexological fields overlapping development at the end of the 19th century. Certain sexual dysfunctions, like the inability to achieve vaginal orgasm, were considered the basis of “frigidity” based on Freud’s statements (most notably in the works of Hitschmann and Bergler).

Early in the 20th century, there was a surge in marriage counseling literature in the US and the UK that highlighted the importance of sexual pleasure in marriage. Given the significant emotional, physical, and spiritual differences between men and women, sexual dysfunction in women was viewed as a technical problem that was a component of a larger social phenomenon that needed to be addressed through education. In 1952, issues like coldness were categorized under “Psychophysiological autonomic and visceral disorders” in the first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Although dyspareunia was added to the list, the second edition, which was released in 1968, was comparable.

Only the third edition of the DSM, published in 1980, saw significant changes, moving from psychoanalytic to biological psychiatry. An umbrella chapter on psychosexual disorders has been added in place of distinct categories for sexual deviations and psychophysiological genitourinary disorders. Historically, female sexual dysfunction has generally been regarded as a descriptive or general term rather than a diagnostic one. Even though it was made up of several diagnostic categories, treatment was still sought as though it were a true monocausal condition. Medical literature from the 20th and 21st centuries has addressed sexuality’s social dimensions and its potential to treat sexual dysfunction in great detail.

References:

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/mens-health

A study reveals that bacterial vaginosis is transmitted sexually.

A study reveals that bacterial vaginosis is transmitted sexually.

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After a groundbreaking study in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that bacterial vaginosis (BV), which affects almost one-third of women globally, can be spread through sexual contact, important questions still need to be answered. In addition to calling for more research on the condition that can lead to infertility, premature births, and newborn deaths, the study findings may change the focus of treatment from women-only information about bacterial vaginosis (BV) to both men and women. results of the investigation. The study.

Vodstrcil’s team discovered that treating bacterial vaginosis (BV) as an STI and treating both sexual partners at the same time resulted in noticeably higher cure rates than the current practice of treating only women in a trial of 164 couples in which each woman had BV and was in a monogamous relationship with a male partner.

According to a press release from coauthor Catriona S. Bradshaw, PhD, who is also affiliated with the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre at Monash University, this effective intervention is brief, reasonably priced, and has the potential to improve bacterial vaginosis (BV) treatment for women for the first time. It also creates exciting new opportunities for BV prevention.

The male partners in the partner-treatment group received oral and topical antimicrobial treatment (400 mg metronidazole tablets and 2 percent clindamycin cream applied to penile skin, twice daily for 7 days) while the women in the randomized, open-label, controlled trial received first-line recommended antimicrobial agents. In the control group, male partners were not treated while women received first-line care. Recurrence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) within 12 weeks was the main result. The researchers pointed out that historically, after taking oral antibiotics for a week, over half of women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) have a recurrence within three months.

35 percent of women in the partner-treatment group and 63 percent of women in the control group experienced a recurrence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) in the modified intention-to-treat population. This represents an absolute risk difference of −2.6 recurrences per person-year (95 percent CI, −4.0 to −1.2; P < .001). According to the authors, the trial was terminated early because the woman’s treatment alone was subpar compared to that of both her and her male partner. Other Factors May Affect the Development of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Nevertheless, some experts highlight unresolved issues that demand more investigation.

While he believes that bacterial vaginosis (BV) can definitely be spread through sexual contact, Mykhaylo Usyk, PhD, MPH, MSci, a research assistant professor in the Departments of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, New York, stated that further research is necessary to determine which specific types of BV are transmissible, particularly since the trial was not finished for ethical reasons. Recurrence was not prevented for every individual who received the intervention, and the sample size was small.

According to Usyk, who published a study on the impact of bacterial vaginosis (BV) on chlamydia infection recurrence, I’m not sure if I would classify BV as an STI in and of itself. Similar to a fever, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is also an indicator. It is a sign of another illness. He stated that it is evident that men are serving as a reservoir. The men have some underlying infections that will cause bacterial vaginosis (BV) to recur unless they are treated. Usyk stated that he would like to see more research on which subtype of bacterial vaginosis (BV) is transmissible before routinely prescribing antibiotics to men and women to treat and prevent BV. Douching and smoking may be factors.

Other contributing factors, like smoking or intravaginal practices like douching and using lubricants, may also disrupt the vaginal microbiome and contribute to the development of bacterial vaginosis (BV), according to Rebecca Brotman, PhD, MPH, who studies the human vaginal microbiome and bacterial vaginosis (BV) at the Center for Advanced Microbiome Research and Innovation at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore. She agreed that the trial’s findings will change how doctors treat and care for bacterial vaginosis (BV) and said it offers strong evidence in favor of the long-held theory that BV-associated bacteria can be sexually transmitted. She pointed out that there was little proof that men could spread bacterial vaginosis (BV) before the trial was published.

She did, however, note that although the trial is a major step forward in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV), more research is required to confirm the results in other populations. For instance, a third of the women in the trial were using intrauterine devices, and 80% of the men were not circumcised. These factors can both have an impact on the presence of bacteria linked to bacterial vaginosis (BV). She cites numerous studies that support the idea that bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be sexually transmitted, including the high concordance in lesbian couples, the frequent co-occurrence of BV with STIs, the higher prevalence among women who have multiple or new sexual partners, and the higher incidence among women whose male partners have multiple recent partners.

According to her, studies show that women who regularly use condoms or refrain from having sex have a lower risk of contracting bacterial vaginosis (BV), while unprotected sex is associated with a higher rate of treatment failure. As the director of the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Caroline M. Mitchell, MD, MPH, told Medscape Medical News, “A Huge Win for Women,” it’s crucial to keep in mind that bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a syndrome, meaning that different bacteria may be present in different people or episodes.

Clinically, I do see patients who appear to have highly sexually facilitated bacterial vaginosis (BV), which only occurs with one partner and goes away when they are not with that person. Others, however, do not feel this way at all. This isn’t universal, in my opinion. I do encounter patients who have attempted abstinence but continue to experience recurrence. In contrast to chlamydia, I do not believe that a person’s partner is being unfaithful if they have BV. However, the results of this study indicate that bacteria on the penis probably contribute to at least some cases of bacterial vaginosis (BV), which does appear to be sexually facilitated.

I do believe that there may be some passing back and forth of BV-associated bacteria between sexual partners for people with highly recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV), and that treating both people as [recommended] in this paper will be necessary to clear those organisms,” she continued. She claimed that the study represents a significant advancement in the prevention of bacterial vaginosis (BV) recurrence in certain patients. This is a major victory for women, she said, because the field’s treatment options haven’t changed significantly since 1982. The results should alter counseling.

In an editorial that goes with it, Christina A. According to Jack D. Dot Sobel, MD, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Wayne State University in Detroit, and Muzny, MD, MSPH, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at The University of Alabama at Birmingham, the results should alter counseling for women. According to the editorialists, the results also highlight the need for a significant shift in the way that women with bacterial vaginosis are treated, specifically in terms of counseling them about the cause of their infection and involving their male partners in sharing responsibility for treatment and transmission. Other than using condoms consistently, there are currently no effective methods to stop the sexual spread of bacteria linked to bacterial vaginosis.

The StepUp Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry and the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia provided funding for this study. The complete text of the papers is available along with the disclosures made by the authors and editorialists. Usyk disclosed no pertinent financial ties. Brotman disclosed no pertinent financial ties. Mitchell was granted stock options and serves on the scientific advisory boards of Concerto Bio and Ancilia Bio. Up to Date paid royalties to her.

Medical Myths: Endometriosis facts vs. fiction

Medical Myths: Endometriosis facts vs. fiction

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We look at some widespread myths about endometriosis in this installment of our Medical Myths series. These include misconceptions regarding the illness’s other features as well as its causes and available treatments.

We take a direct approach to medical disinformation in our series on medical myths. MNT sheds light on the myth-ridden field of health journalism by separating fact from fiction using expert insight and peer-reviewed studies. A chronic illness called endometriosis causes tissue that typically lines the inside of the uterus to grow outside of the womb. This illness can make it painful to urinate or have bowel movements, as well as to have sex. It may also be the cause of other symptoms like weariness, nausea, and mental health issues.

Occasionally, depending on where the tissue is located, it can lead to issues with conception. Furthermore, endometriosis can develop in or near other organs, such as the lungs. Endometriosis affects about 10% of women in the world who are fertile. Male endometriosis can happen, albeit it is very uncommon. In addition, individuals with endometriosis frequently face a delay in diagnosis due to the wide range of symptoms associated with the condition.

Having a mother, sibling, or daughter who has endometriosis, starting periods before the age of eleven, or experiencing heavy or prolonged periods lasting more than seven days are risk factors for endometriosis. In certain people, a past history of shorter than 27-day monthly cycles may also raise the risk of endometriosis.

A common anesthetic procedure called laparoscopic surgery is frequently used to confirm an endometriosis diagnosis. Following a diagnosis, a physician may prescribe hormone therapy or analgesics to treat the patient’s symptoms. Surgery is an option if endometriosis is causing severe pain or if it is affecting fertility. But as of right now, there’s no recognized treatment for the illness. Despite the existence of numerous facts, endometriosis is still shrouded in mythology, leaving many people unsure of what to believe.

We spoke with Carly King, N.D., and Dr. Barbara Stegmann, clinical lead, of Woman’s Health at Organon and OB-GYN, to help distinguish truth from fiction. D. naturopathic physician with a license who practices at Entrepreneur and The Health Centre Integrative Therapies. To present the facts about endometriosis supported by science, we also examined recent peer-reviewed studies.

Periods are normally very heavy, very painful, or both
Even though estimates indicate that over half of all women who menstruate experience some pain during their periods, severe pain may occasionally be a sign that endometriosis is present. Though this isn’t always the case, endometriosis can cause painful and heavy periods. In addition to pain in other parts of the body, pain can also manifest as bowel, urinary, or ovulation pain. The volume of period bleeding can vary, as can cycle lengths, and midcycle bleeding is a possible symptom.

It’s a partial myth that periods are typically heavy and painful. Some individuals experience extremely painful and heavy menstruation, but they are not the norm. Some experience light periods and mild cramps, while others experience pain in between periods. Therefore, if you have any concerns, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Pregnancy can cure endometriosis
Dr. King told MNT that endometriosis is not curable through pregnancy. She continued, Some women experience improvements in their symptoms during pregnancy, while others do not, and still others may experience a worsening of symptoms.. Dr. There are no cures for endometriosis, Stegmann added. She did, however, clarify that hormone levels do fluctuate during pregnancy. Due to these hormonal variations, people may experience varying degrees of pain following childbirth. Additionally, research indicates that endometriosis-affected women do not appear to benefit from pregnancy. Furthermore, scientists observe that while some endometriosis lesions regress, others either stay the same or grow.

A hysterectomy can cure endometriosis
In one study, of 137 female endometriosis patients who had a hysterectomy, 84% of the participants were happy with the outcome of the procedure, according to a reliable source. Nevertheless, Dr. King pointed out that even though a hysterectomy can relieve symptoms of endometriosis for many people, the condition can recur after the surgery. If endometrial lesions are still present outside of the uterus, symptoms may also persist, she continued. The ovaries produce estrogen, which is what endometriosis reacts to. Dr. Stegmann went on, A hysterectomy normally removes the uterus rather than the ovaries, so it wouldn’t cure endometriosis. There are various forms of endometriosis, ranging from superficial lesions to those that encroach on the colon and other organs. This kind is known as DIE or deep infiltrating endometriosis. Even if you have your ovaries removed or your hormones suppressed, those lesions probably won’t get better, she said.

Endometriosis only affects the female reproductive organs
In actuality, endometriosis typically implants on the peritoneum, a surface found inside the abdomen, rather than the reproductive organs. It is the source of pain. However, endometriosis can be found almost anywhere. It has even been observed in the brain, where it can cause seizures when a woman has her period. It can also be found in the lining of the lung. Thankfully, this is not a common occurrence, and your medical professional should be able to assist in keeping an eye out for any indications that implants may be located elsewhere, she added. Even so, a 2017 study (Trusted Source) using mice to examine the possibility that endometrial-derived cells could spread to other body organs raises the possibility that endometriosis outside of the pelvis may be more common than previously thought.

Endometriosis always causes pain
According to study data, over 60% of females diagnosed with endometriosis report having chronic pelvic pain (Trusted Source). In addition, the likelihood of experiencing stomach pain in individuals with endometriosis is 13 times higher than in those without the condition. Even though pain is a common symptom, endometriosis can still be diagnosed in cases where a patient has no pain. This is according to Dr. Dot King. Dr. Stegmann continued, Some individuals with DIE have little to no pain at all, and some individuals with mild forms of endometriosis have excruciating pain. We believe that the location of the implant and whether it releases any chemicals that cause pain may have an impact on this. As a matter of fact, until they undergo .. abdominal surgery, some people are unaware that they have extremely advanced endometriosis.

Menopause stops endometriosis
Scientists estimate that 2-4 percent of females have postmenopausal endometriosis, despite the paucity of research on the subject. Menopause does not always mean that endometriosis disappears. As a matter of fact, the illness may manifest years after your periods end. Dr. Menopause may not cure endometriosis for the same reason that a hysterectomy does not always cure it, Stegmann clarified. She advised speaking with a healthcare provider about pain management options if the pain from endometriosis does not go away after menopause.

Endometriosis equals infertility
Research indicates that between 30 and 50 percent of women who have endometriosis also have trouble getting pregnant. However, despite data connecting the illness to problems with conception, Dr. Dot King pointed out that endometriosis does not automatically mean a diagnosis of infertility. I have seen patients who have endometriosis both mild and severe who have problems getting pregnant. Trying is the only way to find out if getting pregnant will be difficult for you. Just be sure to collaborate with your medical professional as many endometriosis medications prevent pregnancy and must be stopped for you to get better.

Abortion causes endometriosis
The political discourse surrounding abortion may have given rise to the myth that abortion causes endometriosis. But this is not a claim supported by evidence. Dr. King stated to MNT that there seems to be a genetic component to endometriosis, even though the precise cause is still unknown. There is no proof that endometriosis is brought on by abortion. Dr. Stegmann was very clear in her response when asked if having an abortion could lead to endometriosis: Absolutely not.. There is no connection between endometriosis and abortion.

Birth control pills can cure endometriosis
Birth control pills do not cure endometriosis, but Dr. King clarified that they may help reduce symptoms due to suppression of ovulation and menses. There is no treatment for endometriosis, Dr. Stegmann emphasized. Birth control pills, however, do help endometriosis by balancing your hormones and stopping bleeding. Thus, they are an effective treatment but not a cure, the speaker clarified. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are pain relievers, are among the medications used in the treatment of endometriosis. A gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist was also approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018 as a medication to help treat endometriosis pain.

High estrogen levels cause endometriosis
Dr. King dispelled this myth by stating, There is no evidence linking high estrogen levels to endometriosis.. Nevertheless, drugs that block estrogen can aid in symptom relief. Furthermore, researchTrusted Source indicates that while high estrogen levels might not directly cause endometriosis, they might be involved in the processes that scientists link to the illness. However, a 2022 studyTrusted Source points out that immune system-stimulating medications may also be used to treat or prevent endometriosis. The study’s researchers discovered evidence pointing to a possible link between the development of the illness and the activation of particular white blood cells, which may lead to chronic inflammation.

Reference:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-endometriosis-facts-vs-fiction#10.-High-estrogen-levels-cause-endometriosis

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here
https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?generic=398

Breast cancer: Can a wearable device help to detect it?

Breast cancer: Can a wearable device help to detect it?

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To screen for breast cancer at home, researchers created a wearable gadget.

Initial testing reveal that it is capable of detecting tiny cysts that are comparable in size to early-stage breast tumours. To confirm the effectiveness of the gadget, clinical trials are required.

One day, a cutting-edge piece of wearable technology that can be fastened to a bra might enable individuals to identify breast cancer symptoms while lounging at home.

With approximately 1 in 6 cancer-related deaths among women, breast cancer is the most common cancer in the world. Women make up the great majority of breast cancer patients. Men experience 0.5% to 1% of cases, though.

If discovered when the cancer has not yet moved outside of the breast, breast cancer has a 5-year relative survival rate of up to 99%. The 5-year survival rate drops to 30% if discovered later, such as when cancer has spread to distant bodily areas like the lungs, liver, or bones.

Currently, the most popular approach for detecting breast cancer is a mammography, an X-ray imaging procedure.

Mammograms must be performed in an imaging center even though they are typically efficient at detecting 87% of malignancies. This limits access for many people, especially those with low incomes, who could postpone screening as a result of the high associated expenses and challenges in organizing transportation.

The health outcomes for those diagnosed with the condition globally could be improved by initiatives to increase accessibility and lower the cost of breast cancer screening.

Researchers recently created a wearable ultrasound breast patch that could enable patients to scan for breast cancer at home.

Bard-certified doctor Dr. Kamila Seilhan, stated: “This wearable ultrasound device may help patients at high risk of breast cancer in the interim between routine mammograms by enabling early tumor detection.”

A breast-attached wearable breast cancer detector

The same ultrasound technology that imaging centres utilise is the foundation of the device. However, because of the piezoelectric materials used, it can be made smaller to function as a portable ultrasound scanner. Through a mechanism called piezoelectricity, crystals transform mechanical energy into electrical energy, which in this instance can be used to interpret ultrasound measurements.

“The device sends sound waves into the breast tissue, and as it moves across the breast, it produces high-quality images identifying cysts that may need to be investigated by a breast cancer specialist,” said Dr. Jennifer Tseng, F.A.C.S., medical director of breast surgery and a double board-certified surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Centre in Irvine, California, who was not involved in the research.

To make the device wearable, the researchers created a flexible, 3D-printed patch with honeycomb-like holes. The patch fastens to a bra with holes so it may touch the skin and scan breast tissue there.

The entire breast may be imaged thanks to the scanner’s six various positioning options. In order to capture photographs from various perspectives, it can also be rotated.

The scanner has already been tested on a 71-year-old woman who has a history of breast cysts. They were able to identify cysts with the gadget that were as small as early-stage tumours, or 0.3 centimetres in diameter. According to their findings, the images produced had an 80mm depth and a resolution comparable to that of conventional ultrasounds.

Senior author of the study Canan Dagdeviren, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Media Arts and Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), stated that the technology makes it simple to repeatedly take pictures from the same location.

Increased screening availability for breast cancer

Dr. Dagdeviren stated that the ultimate purpose of the device is to reach underrepresented women, including those living in less economically developed nations, and to make breast cancer screening more accessible and affordable.

Dr. Seilhan remarked that if successful, the device could be especially helpful in isolated locations without simple access to medical facilities.

“Healthcare facilities and organizations with limited funds can purchase the device more easily because of its low cost,” she said.

She continued by saying that while the gadget is simple to operate, it might be useful in settings where medical personnel have limited technical expertise.

Dr. Tseng pointed out, however, that in order for patients in less developed nations to benefit fully from diagnostic technologies, it is equally critical for them to have better access to those tools.

However, she added, “patients still need to have the data reviewed by an expert who can recommend what to do next.” This device may assist patients identify potential problem areas that they were unable to identify before.

When will the breast cancer wearable device be obtainable?

According to Dr. Dagdeviren, the device might be usable for 4-5 years. She is starting a business to achieve this goal and is looking for partners and investors. For mass production and FDA certification, she stated, “we will need about $40 million.”

In spite of the fact that the device now needs a “bulky computer interface” to process photographs, the author continued, her team is currently working on a more portable design and will soon release an iPhone-size image processor.

The researchers are also creating a workflow that will enable artificial intelligence to examine data and produce diagnostic evaluations that might be more precise than those made by a radiologist comparing photos that were obtained over some time.

Experts spoke with Dr. Richard Reitherman, Ph.D., a board-certified radiologist and medical director of breast imaging at MemorialCare Breast Centre at Orange Coast Medical Centre in Fountain Valley, California, who was not involved in the study to learn more about potential future uses for the device.

“This kind of product will be a welcomed supplemental addition to women’s health care,” the doctor said. “If it can be demonstrated to be on par with mammography and dedicated breast ultrasound for breast cancer screening, it will be a welcome alternative.”

However, he pointed out that one of the biggest obstacles for any new gadget is completing successful clinical trials, which will probably require collaboration with the American College of Radiology.

“This is a complex and difficult proposition,” he said. “The jump from translational science to clinical efficacy remains to be seen.”

What are the limitations of the study?

Its limits stem from the fact that the technology is still in its early stages of development.

The University of Kansas Cancer Centre breast radiologist Dr. Onalisa Winblad, who was not part of the study, stated that she does not currently support its use because it “does not have scientific data to prove utility.”

The linked article’s photographs are of low quality when compared to those from our normal breast ultrasound. In patients with dense breast tissue, ultrasonography is a tool that is beneficial in addition to mammography.

Dr. Tseng concurred that although ultrasonography is a useful tool for breast cancer screening, it cannot take the place of mammography and other types of preventive treatment provided by a breast cancer specialist.

Different technologies are more effective than others at detecting various breast alterations. For instance, while some calcifications cannot be seen with ultrasonography, others can be seen with mammography, she noted.

She stated that two of the most crucial elements in how effectively the tool performs as a breast cancer screening tool are “the device’s ability to find true positive cases and avoid fake positive cases.“

She continued by saying that even while the tool might be simple to use, how well it works may still rely on the user. Also, she added that because the human breast varies from person to person and even among individuals, large-area and deep-tissue imaging can be challenging.

When challenged about the device’s limits, Dr. Reitherman stated that in order to maintain good quality metrics, the scanner must be operated under medical supervision, such as through “virtual supervision by a radiologist.”

“Therefore, the existing medical community and physicians that would be interpreting and recommending actions based on this device’s information would need to be on board,” he said.

REFERENCES:

For Breast Cancer medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are avalaible here (https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?therapy=10)

Pregnancy: Low fiber may cause neurodevelopmental delays.

Pregnancy: Low fiber may cause neurodevelopmental delays.

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Low fiber intake during pregnancy may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental impairments in offspring, according to a recent study.

An essential part of a nutritious, well-balanced diet, particularly while pregnant, is fiber. With the right advice from nutritionists, pregnant women can increase their fiber consumption as necessary.

The complex period of pregnancy can have an impact on a variety of health consequences.

Researchers are still trying to figure out how behaviors and the environment during pregnancy affect the offspring’s later years.

The baby’s health and growth can be impacted by nutrition throughout pregnancy, but researchers are still trying to determine how various dietary details will affect the baby’s development.

Fiber intake during pregnancy was the subject of a recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

According to the study’s findings, consuming less fiber during pregnancy increases the likelihood of neurodevelopmental impairments in the progeny.

Low fibre during pregnancy slows brain development

Researchers for the study observed that earlier research on animals had connected a reduced fiber diet during pregnancy to delayed brain development in children.

The data from 76,207 mother-infant pairs were evaluated by the researchers using information from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study.

They examined participants’ fiber consumption while pregnant and divided them into one of five groups according to how much fiber they consumed.

They then evaluated three-year-olds for developmental impairments. Parents or other primary carers were asked to complete questionnaires that measured children’s communication, fine and gross motor abilities, problem-solving, and personal-social skills to achieve this. With a lower score, there was more developmental delay.

In contrast to the group of moms who consumed the most total dietary fiber, the researchers discovered that those with the lowest fiber intake had the highest linked risk of having children with neurodevelopmental delays.

They discovered four crucial regions linked to slowed newborn brain development as a result of inadequate fibre intake:

  • communication
  • problem-solving
  • personal-social
  • small-motor abilities

The group with the lowest consumption of dietary fibre still carried significant risks for developmental delays, even when taking folic acid intake into consideration.

According to research author Kunio Miyake, Ph.D., of the University of Yamanashi, “most pregnant women in Japan consume far less dietary fiber than what is recommended intake; thus, this maternal nutritional imbalance during pregnancy may adversely affect the neurodevelopment of their offspring.”

Therefore, providing nutritional advice to expectant moms is essential to lowering the likelihood that their offspring would experience future health issues.

The authors of the study hypothesize that the results are due to the interaction of fiber with the brain’s microbiome and the gut microbiota.

“Dietary fiber is known to affect the regulation of gut microbiota and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs),” Dr. Miyake said.

Recommendations for fibre during pregnancy

Fibre is a crucial part of a balanced diet and is especially necessary during pregnancy. Dr. Brian Power, Ph.D., an author of a non-study and nutritionist at Atlantic Technological University in Sligo, Ireland, explained to us:

Numerous studies show that increasing dietary fiber intake during pregnancy benefits many women by lowering the risk of insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and uncontrollable weight gain.

The current USDA recommendation is for people to consume 14 grammes of fibre for every 1,000 calories they consume.

Therefore, with 2,000 calories per day, consumers should have roughly 28 grammes of fibre daily. A “low residue diet” or “low fibre diet” typically contains 10 to 15 grammes of fibre per day.

Only 8.4% of study participants exceeded the recommended daily intake of 18 grammes of fibre in Japan, where the recommendations range somewhat. The study’s findings may potentially indicate a risk from consuming too much fibre after accounting for folic acid.

It’s crucial to have open lines of communication with your medical team during your pregnancy in order to identify any potential nutritional deficits and how to make up for them.

How to increase your intake of fiber?

Your doctor might advise boosting your intake by eating more fiber-rich foods or taking supplements if your diet is lacking in the substance. High-fiber dietary examples come in the form of:

  • whole-grain cereal with kernels
  • artichokes
  • beans
  • a few fruits (such as raspberries, blackberries, and apples)

Dr. Al-Shaer stated, “Increasing fibre can be done simply by integrating more whole meals throughout the day, such as vegetables, legumes, nuts [and] seeds, and fruit.

“Many fruits, such as berries or bananas, are excellent sources of fibre, and all nuts and seeds are high in fibre. Try to fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables at each meal, which is a generally good rule of thumb I suggest to my patients. Except for potatoes, corn and peas, practically all vegetables are non-starchy. We can get enough fibre this way throughout the day. And a simple method to enhance our fibre intake is to sprinkle sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, flax seeds, or beans on salads or breakfast bowls,” according to registered dietician Abrar Al-Shaer, PhD.

REFERENCES:

For Pregnancy related medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?cPath=24

New biomarkers help in sooner diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

New biomarkers help in sooner diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

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In the United States, ovarian cancer ranks as the sixth most frequent cancer among women. A better possibility of successful treatment results from early diagnosis. However, because the symptoms of ovarian cancer sometimes resemble those of digestive problems, it can be challenging to identify.

Three previously unidentified ovarian cancer proteins that can be found in the blood have recently been discovered by new research. These may make it easier to diagnose ovarian cancer, enabling early treatment to begin when it is most likely to be successful.

Any malignant tumor that begins in the ovaries the female reproductive organs located low in the abdomen is considered to be ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer rates have declined recently, but it still claims more lives than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. This is according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Ovarian cancer symptoms, which typically manifest in older women, can be confused with those of other gynaecological or digestive conditions since they can include:

  • pelvic pressure or pain
  • abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • back or stomach ache
  • Bloating or the sensation of being full after eating
  • Changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as constipation and more frequent urination.

Early detection of ovarian cancer usually results in good treatment, with 94% of patients living at least five years after diagnosis. However, only 20% of ovarian malignancies are discovered at an early stage, and there are no reliable screening tools available at this time.

Three previously undiscovered membrane proteins that can be extracted from bodily fluids like blood, urine, and saliva have now been linked to ovarian cancer, according to new research led by Nagoya University in Japan.

These results, according to the study’s authors, could result in an earlier detection of ovarian cancer, according to Science Advances.

Various ovarian cancer tumor types?

Ovarian tumours can be of three primary types:

Epithelial tumors. The cells that make up these tumours come from the ovary’s outer layer. The majority of ovarian tumours are epithelial tumours, according to the American Cancer Society. Typically, women over 50 are diagnosed with these tumours.

Stromal tumours. Cells of structural tissue are where stromal tumours start. In addition, progesterone and oestrogen are produced by these cells.

According to the Canadian Cancer Society, stromal tumors account for roughly 7% of cases of ovarian cancer. They are typically found in females over 50.

Germ cell tumors. These tumors develop from cells that make eggs. They account for 2–3% of cases of ovarian cancer. Women in their teens and 20s are more prone to experience this type of cancer.

A study identifies novel ovarian cancer biomarkers.

The most prevalent type of ovarian cancer, high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), was used by the researchers to collect extracellular vesicles (EVs).

To boost cell growth and survival as well as increase invasive and metastatic activities, cancer cells create EVs. Exosomes, a kind of small EV, are crucial to the development of cancer.

The scientists next examined the proteins present in small, medium, and big EVs using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

According to lead author and assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Nagoya University Hospital in Japan, Dr. Akira Yokoi, “The validation steps for the identified proteins were tough because we had to try a lot of antibodies before we found a good target.”

It became evident that the small and medium/large EVs are laden with quite diverse molecules as a result. Small EVs are more suited as biomarkers than medium and large ones, according to further research. The tiny EVs connected to HGSC contained the membrane proteins FR-alpha, Claudin-3, and TACSTD2, he continues.

They had to figure out how to extract the EVs from blood samples after they had discovered the proteins in order to see if they might be utilised to identify ovarian cancer.

The team made use of specialised nanowire technology to collect the EVs. In order to separate exosomes from blood samples, they discovered that polyketone chain-coated nanowires (pNWs) were the best option.

On the nanowires, we must have tested three to four different coatings. Despite being a brand-new substance, polyketones were ultimately a great fit for coating this particular sort of nanowire, according to Dr. Akira Yokoi.

Chance of an earlier diagnosis

The most essential thing we can do to increase survival is probably to diagnose cancer sooner, yet for the majority of tumours, clinicians don’t have access to good diagnostic tools. Later stages of ovarian cancer are significantly more difficult to cure, and the disease’s signs are frequently overlooked, according to Dr. Godfrey.

There is now only one biomarker, Cancer Antigen 125 (CA125), that can be used to diagnose ovarian cancer. Although CA125 has been a key component of ovarian cancer management for the past 40 years in terms of screening, treatment, and follow-up. Also, it hasn’t showed much promise in terms of early detection.

A number of tests may be used by the doctor to make the diagnosis of ovarian cancer if a patient exhibits symptoms that point in that direction. These could involve a transvaginal ultrasound test, a CT scan, or a laparoscopy to look for any growths. Laparoscopy involves making a small incision and inserting a camera into the abdomen.

However, a biopsy, which entails removing a portion of the tumor for laboratory investigation, is the only reliable method of an ovarian cancer diagnosis. A straightforward blood test-based diagnosis approach would be a significant advancement.

Experts urge additional study.

Each of the three novel proteins, according to the study’s authors, may serve as valuable indicators for spotting ovarian cancer at an early stage.

According to Dr. Yokoi, “Our results demonstrated that each of the three identified proteins is useful as a biomarker for HGSCs.” According to the study’s findings, these diagnostic biomarkers may serve as indicators of prognosis for particular treatments.

Dr. Godfrey welcomed the study but emphasised that these were preliminary results.

“It’s too soon to say whether the technology could reliably help us spot ovarian cancer early,” he said. “The research only used a small number of clinical samples.”

He continued, that we need to see more study into these kinds of diagnostic tools. However, if they work, they might make significant improvements to how we treat a range of cancer types.

Summary

Those who are at a high risk of developing ovarian cancer may benefit from screening with ovarian cancer tumor markers. However, a diagnosis cannot be made solely on the basis of blood testing.

Tumour markers for ovarian cancer can be used to monitor disease progression and evaluate the efficacy of treatment.

A 2019 research found that the stage of ovarian cancer at the time of diagnosis is advanced in more than 70% of patients. Although research is ongoing, there is currently no accurate screening method for ovarian cancer.

Knowing the warning signals and informing a doctor of them is crucial for this reason. If you think you have a high chance of developing ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor about the types of testing that could be best for you.

REFERENCES:

For Cancer disease medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?therapy=10

Endometriosis: Reason for its prolonged diagnosis.

Endometriosis: Reason for its prolonged diagnosis.

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Endometriosis is a chronic disorder that can produce excruciating pain under various conditions, including menstruation and sexual activity. For some patients, getting an accurate endometriosis diagnosis might be difficult.

According to recent study, a number of factors, including societal and personal barriers, the behaviour and education of healthcare personnel, and other factors, can delay an endometriosis diagnosis by as much as 11 years.

The reasons why getting an accurate endometriosis diagnosis is challenging were recently investigated in a systematic review and qualitative synthesis.

The researchers pinpointed a number of causes, such as the normalisation of menstruation discomfort, the variety of symptoms, and the lack of training and fast referrals among medical personnel.

The analysis highlights opportunities for development in the early diagnosis and subsequent endometriosis treatment.

What is Endometriosis?

According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, endometriosis is a painful disorder that affects an estimated 200 million people worldwide.

When endometrial-like tissue begins to proliferate outside the uterus, the disorder begins to manifest. Similar tissue normally only develops within the uterus. While it typically affects the rectum and reproductive organs, it can occasionally spread to other sites such as the bowel or pelvic cavity.

Endometrial-like tissue thickens and eventually disintegrates over the course of your menstrual cycle so that it can pass from your body when you menstruate. Similar tissue that develops outside of your uterus and cannot leave your body if you have endometriosis.

It consequently gets caught, irritating the tissues in the area and resulting in scar formation and adhesions. This may lead to chronic pain that gets worse during your period.

Other endometriosis signs and symptoms include:

  • uncomfortable urine or bowel movements, especially during your period
  • unpleasant interactions
  • infertility
  • heavy menstrual bleeding
  • between periods bleeding
  • abdomen and lower back pain right before, during, or right after your period

The following information will help you understand how to diagnose and treat endometriosis.

Consequences of endometriosis

In endometriosis, uterine-like tissue develops outside of the uterus. These lesions may be found in the bladder, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, among other places.

Chronic endometriosis is treated mostly by controlling symptoms. Pain, frequently in the pelvic region, is the primary complaint. At some periods, such as during menstruation, the pain could come on. There could be more signs as well, such as exhaustion and trouble getting pregnant. After menopause, endometriosis symptoms may occasionally get better.

Additional information about endometriosis was provided to us by Dr. Ann Peters, an expert in obstetrics and gynaecology at Mercy Medical Centre who was not engaged in the study:

The most common symptom of endometriosis is painful periods, but it can also cause other unpleasant symptoms like heavy bleeding, chest pains, chronic fatigue, diarrhea, and constipation. Other symptoms of endometriosis include pain during sexual activity and during bowel movements.

Endometriosis is thought to affect one in ten women, but there are currently no noninvasive diagnostic methods, such as ultrasound or blood work tests, that would accurately detect endometriosis, according to Dr. Ann Peters.

The authors of the current review observe that a lot of women wait a long time for a proper medical diagnosis. They wished to learn more about the causes of this delay.

Obstacles to diagnosing endometriosis

The 13 articles in this evaluation all complied with the tight eligibility requirements. All of the studies either enrolled endometriosis-affected women or medical professionals with endometriosis diagnosis expertise.

The evaluation concentrated primarily on qualitative research in which individuals talked about their experiences getting an endometriosis diagnosis. The authors’ study of these publications yielded four types of themes that contributed to delayed diagnosis:

  • individual elements
  • Individual differences
  • health system variables
  • endometriosis-specific F actors

They discovered that ladies have trouble comprehending the typical menstrual pain on an individual basis. For instance, participants frequently believed that their discomfort was normal and that they should learn to live with it.

The timing of the endometriosis diagnosis was probably impacted by these concepts and the usage of self-care techniques to control symptoms.

Researchers discovered that social stigma against addressing menstrual issues and society’s acceptance of monthly pain as normal may have further delayed diagnosis.

Finally, endometriosis and healthcare circumstances affected when a diagnosis was made. Participants cited instances where general practitioners dismissed concerns or gave the impression that they lacked endometriosis understanding. Similarly, individuals who worked in healthcare said they had received insufficient endometriosis training, and many said they lacked clear clinical guidelines for diagnosis.

There were additional communication issues. Oral contraceptives are occasionally used by medical experts to help diagnose and treat endometriosis. Participants weren’t always given clear explanations of how to rule out other diagnoses or how to utilize oral contraceptives.

Lack of endometriosis testing

Medical specialists also pointed out that endometriosis symptoms often resemble those of other diseases, which can cause delays in diagnosis. Because there are no noninvasive tests that can provide a reliable diagnosis for endometriosis, it might be difficult to make a diagnosis. Referrals were made slowly.

The idea that laparoscopic surgery is the only method of diagnosis was one factor in this. Even medical specialists questioned the value of an endometriosis diagnosis.

Dr. Sophie Davenport, an English physician who wrote the study as part of her Master of Public Health (MPH) dissertation, outlined the multifaceted strategy that will be required to remove these obstacles:

The data’s main takeaways are that there are delays in diagnosis at every stage of the trip. We need to address these on a variety of fronts, from society understanding what “normal” menstruation is and being open to discussing menstrual problems to clinicians being knowledgeable about presentation and diagnosis and paying attention to patients who claim their periods aren’t normal, according to study author Dr. Sophie Davenport.

Diagnosed with endometriosis in the past

There were some issues with this study that point to the need for more investigation.

All of the research in the study were carried out in high-income nations, the majority of which provided universal healthcare. As a result, it might not be able to generalize the findings, and this research doesn’t address any potential financial obstacles to diagnosis.

The majority of participants in studies that provided demographic data were white women, highlighting the need for increased diversity in future research.

The samples among participants with endometriosis may be biassed towards those with more severe cases.

Participants in the research that examined the opinions of healthcare professionals were mostly general practitioners and doctors. Other service providers and experts in the field could be studied in future studies. The review was undertaken by just one reviewer, which increased the chance of bias or methodological flaws.

Dr. Davenport identified the following areas of future study:

Investigating how a patient’s perceptions of receiving an endometriosis diagnosis vary now that the clinical guidelines advise treating empirically based on signs and symptoms rather than doing a laparoscopic surgery first will be an important topic of research. According to the papers, this discouraged physicians from sending women to specialty services and caused a delay in the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of those women, according to Dr Sophie Davenport.

Can I speed up the diagnosing process?

It is becoming simpler to receive a correct diagnosis as more individuals become aware of endometriosis and its symptoms. However, there are a few things you can do ahead of time to make sure you receive a prompt, correct diagnosis:

Try a self-test for endometriosis. Here is a quiz you can give yourself. on show your doctor during your appointment, print out your results, or save them on your phone.

Maintain a symptom log. Keeping thorough records of your symptoms may seem boring, but they will help your doctor make a proper diagnosis. Record your symptoms’ severity on a scale of 1 to 10, as well as any details about when in your cycle they often appear.

Use a period-tracking app or a notebook to record this information.

Find a specialist in endometriosis. Request a recommendation from your doctor for a gynecologist who specializes in endometriosis. For doctor recommendations and other advice, you can also look through internet support communities.

REFERENCES:

For Sexual disease medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?therapy=24