Does the spiral help fight endometriosis? It’s not always enough

This Yellow March, disease awareness month, discover the models that can help reduce its impacts

In the final part of the Yellow March, which aims to raise public awareness of endometriosis, there is a lot of talk about possible cures for the disease. And one of the most common questions is: how much can an IUD help fight this condition?

Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease, capable of causing intense pain, in which there is a change in the size of the endometrial cells lining the uterus, which are moved to other organs instead of being expelled during menstruation. In other words, endometriosis is the development of the endometrium outside of where it should be.

The hormonal IUD may be an option to help fight the disease, as progesterone is released into the uterus, inhibiting the creation of new hormones and, consequently, the endometrium. But gynecologist and obstetrician Dr. Eduardo Zlotnik explains that the action will not always be effective.

“Some professionals believe that the IUD can help in the treatment when adenomyosis (infiltration of endometrial cells into the muscle layer of the uterus) or endometriosis of the rectovaginal septum is diagnosed, due to its proximity. However, the IUD with progesterone has a local effect, intrauterine action, which would not work to treat the various points where tissue can adhere, he explains.

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According to the doctor, there are two types of IUDs that can help combat the symptoms of endometriosis. “The Mirena and Kyleena IUDs are devices that rely on local hormonal action and can help in treatment when adenomyosis or endometriosis of the rectovaginal septum is diagnosed, thanks to their proximity.” Endometriosis treatment, however, should only be used by women who do not wish to become pregnant.

In some cases, when endometriosis causes very large lesions, the IUD may not be enough. In these cases, the solution may be to perform surgery to remove endometrial tissue that damages other organs. “When a woman has endometriosis she may have difficulty getting pregnant, such as partial blockage of the ureter or pressure on the appendix. So, depending on the progression of this endometriosis, surgery may be necessary,” says the gynecologist.

Since there are specificities of each organism, it is important to consult and follow specialist indications regarding the possible placement of an IUD or a surgical procedure to contain endometriosis.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.