How Endometriosis can impact the menstrual cycle for women

Introduction

According to the Department of Health and Human services roughly % to 25% experience menstrual irregularities. Here these women experience cycles that are either shorter or longer than normal. In some instances these women experience cycles that are also heavier or lighter than normal periods. Finally, others experience pain, abdominal cramps and other specific situations that are irregular in nature. This is a critical occurrence for women as they prepare for pregnancy (Sweet, 2012).

Please describe the pathophysiological process in the development of endometriosis.

To begin, the menstrual cycle is a monthly serious of biological and physiological changes that occurs within women as their body prepares for pregnancy. During this period, the woman’s body releases an egg from their ovaries. This process is called ovulation and is a critical component of the menstrual cycle. While this is occurring women are also undergoing changes with their body internally to prepare for a potential pregnancy. In short, if this process takes place and the egg is not fertilized, the lining of the uterus will eventually shed through the vagina through the menstrual cycle.

Endometriosis is a disorder, often painful, that is the result of endometrium tissue growing outside the uterus. Endometriosis often involves the fallopian tube, ovaries and other the pelvis as well. As noted above, the endometrial tissue sheds through the menstrual cycle. However, in this case, the tissue becomes trapped with no method of exiting the body. As a result cyst may form that can be painful for women who do not take corrective action. In addition surrounding tissue is likely to become irritated with scar tissue also developing. Finally as a result of these occurrences, women may experience fertility issues that can be long lasting in nature (Munro, 2012).

Applicability to clinical practice

Within the primary care setting current practice, influence will depend heavily on the severity of the condition and the patients willingness for treatment. Here, clinical practice can be positively influenced is the patient is willing to take the necessary treatment precautions such as periodic checkup and preventative tactics. Clinical practice can be impacted if the individual is unwilling to take necessary treatment precautions causing further damage, and in extreme cases an inability to have children.

Diagnostic Reasoning

Diagnostic studies used to diagnose the disease typically consist of either ultrasounds or MRI’s. Each has their own strengths and weaknesses. For example ultrasound is useful for determining if scaring has occurred. An MRI is heavily used to see if cysts have occurred in the uterus. However, in both instances, either soundwaves or radio waves are used to examine and eventually diagnose the condition.

Personal Application

This information influences my ability to provide patient care through a better understanding of the condition, how it works, it causes and treatment. It also allows me to better recommend certain actions if ever required. Finally, this knowledge will allow me to better educate patients on questions related to this disease.

Describe the workup involved in diagnosing this condition and discuss current treatment measures for treating endometriosis.