Endometriosis is a condition where cells of the lining of the womb are abnormally located outside the womb, usually in and around the ovaries; this is caused by backflow of menstrual blood through the fallopian tubes into the abdomen. During each period, this tissue outside the womb bleeds like a period. Unlike a normal period, the areas of endometriosis have no access to the outside and bleed inside the abdomen resulting in inflammation, pain and scar tissue. Endometriotic tissue is commonly found in and around the ovaries where it can form cysts, called chocolate cysts because of the brown colour and thick consistency of the retained blood.
What are the symptoms
Most women have symptoms of very painful and heavy periods, lower tummy and pelvic pain and deep pain during intercourse. Some find it difficult to become pregnant.
How do I know if I have endometriosis
When individuals have one or more of the above symptoms, a pelvic ultrasound examination may identify the cysts of endometriosis. However, not all endometriosis can be detected on an ultrasound examination. Often, keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) is needed to diagnose and treat endometriosis.
How do you treat endometriosis
When the degree of endometriosis is mild, treatment with medicines may work and Mr Alak Pal will discuss these with you. Where medicines fail to work or where the endometriosis is advanced, surgery may be required to remove the scar tissue or the ovarian cyst or to destroy the endometriosis with heat. Mr Alak Pal will go through the various options with you to get the best outcome.
How is the surgery done
Surgery for endometriosis is usually keyhole and done under general anaesthesia. It involves use of a laparoscope through a small cut in the belly button and another one or two small incisions on the abdomen to remove the scar tissue or cyst or to destroy superficial areas of active endometriosis.
How to prepare for surgery
You would come into the hospital for half a day, and very likely to return home on the same day. You would be required to limit your food and drink in the hours before the surgery as advised by the hospital.
After surgery
You would usually spend about 2-4 hours in the hospital room for recovery. As you would have received a general anaesthesia, you would not be fit to drive back home. It is usually recommended that you are picked up by a family member or a friend.
Mr Alak Pal will arrange a follow up appointment 2 weeks after surgery.
Patient seen for : Dilation and Curettage
Dr Alak Pal was great. He made me feel comfortable and explained everything clearly, including next steps. Would recommend.
Patient seen for : Hysteroscopy
Very professional and helpful in explaining everything. Helped me make an informed decision with this vast knowledge.
Patient seen for : Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
From the initial appointment, surgery, aftercare and to my final appointment, Mr Pal was extremely professional and understanding to my particular medical circumstances. The entire abdominal hysterectomy procedure was extremely satisfactory. He spent time listening to any concerns that I had and explained clearly and simply the process surrounding the surgery. I would highly recommend him for anyone contemplating such a procedure. Additionally, post-surgical care and appointments were excellent too.
Fantastic doctor, very pleased with consultation. Thanks
Mr Alak Pal is a senior Consultant Gynaecologist at the London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust with extensive experience in the management of utero-vaginal prolapse and urinary symptoms, menstrual disorders and pelvic pain, cysts in the ovary, endometriosis and fibroids. Read more…