Latest news with #EndometriosisUK
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Endometriosis symptoms you've never heard of as X Factor's Ella Henderson announces diagnosis
The singer opened up about her diagnosis, saying she thought it was all in her head at first Former X-Factor star, Ella Henderson, has opened up about her recent diagnosis, calling it "devastating" but "validating". Talking about her health online, she revealed she shares the same condition as Love Island's Molly Mae and Anton Du Beke's wife, Hannah. The 29-year-old revealed she has been diagnosed with endometriosis - a painful and debilitating condition which affects around 1 in 10 women across the UK. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it. It is most commonly found in the pelvis, around the ovaries, fallopian tubes and lining of the pelvis. This misplaced tissue can cause inflammation, pain and potentially fertility issues. Despite some people knowing the main symptoms such as heavy and painful periods, stomach pain and bloating, there are also signs that people don't know and may brush off as something else. But what are they? Endometriosis symptoms you may not know about Common symptoms include: Pelvic pain Painful periods that interfere with everyday life Heavy menstrual bleeding Pain during or after sex Painful bowel movements/when having a poo Pain when urinating/peeing Difficulty getting pregnant – up to 70% of those with endometriosis will be able to get pregnant naturally Fatigue, with one or more of the above symptoms Symptoms you may not think are endometriosis but could be include: Leg pain Thigh pain Brain fog Bleeding from the bowel Dragging-like sensation around thigh area Rib pain Back pain Depression Diarrhea and/or constipation Hot flushes Shooting pain around bum Nausea Endometriosis 60-second test If you are not sure whether you have 'endo' you can take a 60 second test. You can do this through the Symptom Checker on the Endometriosis UK website. What are the different types of endometriosis? Endometriosis UK states there's 4 different types - and it's possible to have more than one type. The different types refer to the location, amount and depth of endometrial lesions. Peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis - is found mainly on the pelvic peritoneum – a thin film that lines the inner surface of the pelvis and surrounds the pelvic organs. Ovarian endometriosis (endometrioma) – is when endometriosis cysts are found in the ovaries. Deep endometriosis - is found in locations such as the bladder, bowel and recto-vaginal septum (tissue separating the vagina and the rectum). The lesions of endometriosis are at a deeper level than peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis. Extra-pelvic endometriosis - is when endometriosis is found outside of the pelvis, such as the thorax (chest) and caesarean scars.
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Common signs of Endometriosis as pop star Ella Henderson opens up about 'devastating' diagnosis
The singer said the news was "devastating" but finally getting an official diagnosis has also been "empowering" UK singer-songwriter Ella Henderson has revealed to her fans on social media that she was officially diagnosed with endometriosis in January. The artist, who was an X Factor contestant in 2019, said the news had been "devastating". The 29-year-old said receiving an official diagnosis, however, has also been "validating and empowering". The musician, known for hits such as 'Ghost' and 'Crazy What Love Can Do,' shared her health update on Instagram. In a video, she explained: "The last few years have been a little bit of a rollercoaster to say the least behind the scenes. I have really, really been struggling not only with stomach bloating and physical pain, but also with my mental health on the basis that I thought at one point that this was just all in my head and I wasn't really believed. "Although it has kind of been devastating news... I can finally take control of my own body. I feel very, very fortunate that I was able to have a laparoscopy earlier this year to find out what I do have. "Speaking to other women who have endometriosis and learning about it and understanding it more, and about how to live with it, has been so so crucial to me feeling like I am not alone." Endometriosis affects one in 10 women in the UK, according to Endometriosis UK, however, it remains a widely misunderstood condition. Here we take a look at what endometriosis is, common symptoms, and how to get help. What is endometriosis? "Endometriosis is an oestrogen driven, chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, leading to various symptoms, including painful periods," explained Mr Hemant Vakharia, consultant gynaecologist, specialising in endometriosis at London Gynaecology. Endometriosis is often categorised into four main types – which refer to the location, amount and depth of endometrial lesions – and it's possible to have more than one type, according to Endometriosis UK. Here are some explanations of the different types which are listed on Endometriosis UK's website: Peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis – is found mainly on the pelvic peritoneum – a thin film that lines the inner surface of the pelvis and surrounds the pelvic organs. Ovarian endometriosis (endometrioma) – is when endometriosis cysts are found in the ovaries. Deep endometriosis – is found in locations such as the bladder, bowel and recto-vaginal septum (tissue separating the vagina and the rectum). The lesions of endometriosis are at a deeper level than peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis. Extra-pelvic endometriosis – is when endometriosis is found outside of the pelvis, such as the thorax (chest) and caesarean scars. What are the common symptoms? "Painful periods, known as dysmenorrhoea, is a common sign of endometriosis," highlights Vakharia. "Endometriotic cells are stimulated by hormones in your natural cycle which causes inflammation and pain." Another typical sign is dyspareunia, the medical term for painful intercourse. "The inflammation can lead to structures in the pelvis sticking together and also lead to thickening of tissues developing," says Vakharia. "As a result of the inflammation and thickening, patients with endometriosis can have pain with intercourse.' It can also impact your bowels. The endometriosis specialist went on: "In patients who have endometriotic deposits on the bowel, or in those where the inflammation has caused their bowel to stick to other structures, it can be painful to open their bowels. This can occur with their periods or all the time." Other issues include chest pain when on your period, difficulty conceiving and ovarian cysts, Vakharia added. How is endometriosis diagnosed? "It is a good idea to speak to your GP in the first instance who will take a history from you and examine you," Vakharia advised. "Often, they will request an ultrasound of the pelvis and discuss the results with you." However, endometriosis does not always show up on standard imaging, such as ultrasounds or MRIs. "This is especially true in superficial endometriosis, where the signs can be very subtle or when the disease affects areas not easily visualised," Vakharia noted. "If you have been told your scan is normal but have persistent symptoms, such as chronic pelvic pain, heavy periods, or pain during sex, it's essential to advocate for yourself and seek a specialist for further evaluation." When should women seek medical help? "It can be difficult to differentiate between 'normal' periods and 'heavy or painful' periods, as there is often no objective way of comparing," Mr Narendra Pisal, consultant gynaecologist at London Gynaecology, said. "A lot of women just put up with that 'time of the month' and are told to get on with it. However, if you have to put your life on hold for those few days or if your sex life is affected by pain during sex, it is time to take note and ask for some tests." Pisal acknowledges that it can be challenging for a GP to identify the root cause during a 10-minute appointment, so suggests keeping a diary to track when your symptoms occur and how intense the pain is. "Have a diary of your menstrual cycle with particular emphasis on heaviness, pain and any other symptoms with a system for indicating severity," suggests Pisal. "Also note down if you have to take painkillers and how many. If the symptoms are affecting your life and you have to take time off work, that is also a significant factor." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. What treatment options are available for endometriosis? "Patients can be treated with the combined pill, progesterone-only pill, progesterone intrauterine device or surgery," Vakharia said. "Sometimes, we also use medications that induce a temporary menopause by blocking hormonal signals to the ovary which reduces stimulation of the endometriotic tissue. "This option is often used before surgery for severe disease. A laparoscopy will allow diagnosis and excision of disease which can improve symptoms. In patients with severe disease, they may need a two-stage procedure."
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women. These are the signs to look for
British singer and songwriter Ella Henderson has revealed that she was officially diagnosed with endometriosis in January. Endometriosis affects one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth in the UK, according to Endometriosis UK; however, it remains a widely misunderstood condition. In a video posted on Instagram, the 29-year-old singer said: 'The last few years have been a little bit of a roller coaster to say the least behind the scenes. I have really, really been struggling not only with stomach bloating and physical pain, but also with my mental health on the basis that I thought at one point that this was just all in my head and I wasn't really believed.' Henderson said that although it had been 'devastating news', it 'has been the most validating and empowering feeling because I can finally take control of my own body'. 'I feel very, very fortunate that I was able to have a laparoscopy earlier this year to find out what I do have. Speaking to other women who have endometriosis and learning about it and understanding it more, and about how to live with it, has been so so crucial to me feeling like I am not alone.' Emma Cox, CEO for Endometriosis UK, said she applauds Ella for 'sharing her experience of endometriosis in such an open and frank way, highlighting the significant and detrimental impact the condition can have on all aspects of someone's life'. 'Ella's willingness to share her story will no doubt help others in their diagnosis journey; helping them access the care they need.' Experts at London Gynaecology have shared exactly what endometriosis is and what some of the common symptoms to look out for are. What is endometriosis? 'Endometriosis is an oestrogen-driven, chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, leading to various symptoms, including painful periods,' explains Mr Hemant Vakharia, consultant gynaecologist, specialising in endometriosis and advanced minimal access surgery at London Gynaecology. Endometriosis is often categorised into four main types – which refer to the location, amount and depth of endometrial lesions – and it's possible to have more than one type, according to Endometriosis UK. Here are some explanations of the different types, which are listed on Endometriosis UK's website: Peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis – is found mainly on the pelvic peritoneum – a thin film that lines the inner surface of the pelvis and surrounds the pelvic organs. Ovarian endometriosis (endometrioma) – is when endometriosis cysts are found in the ovaries. Deep endometriosis – is found in locations such as the bladder, bowel and recto-vaginal septum (tissue separating the vagina and the rectum). The lesions of endometriosis are at a deeper level than peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis. Extra-pelvic endometriosis – is when endometriosis is found outside of the pelvis, such as the thorax (chest) and caesarean scars. What are the common symptoms, and how do they differ from typical menstrual cramps? 'Painful periods, known as dysmenorrhoea, is a common sign of endometriosis,' highlights Vakharia. 'Endometriotic cells are stimulated by hormones in your natural cycle which causes inflammation and pain.' Another typical sign is dyspareunia, the medical term for painful intercourse. 'The inflammation can lead to structures in the pelvis sticking together and also lead to thickening of tissues developing,' says Vakharia. 'As a result of the inflammation and thickening, patients with endometriosis can have pain with intercourse.' It can also impact your bowels. 'In patients who have endometriotic deposits on the bowel, or in those where the inflammation has caused their bowel to stick to other structures, it can be painful to open their bowels,' notes the endometriosis specialist. 'This can occur with their periods or all the time.' Other issues include chest pain when on your period, difficulty conceiving and ovarian cysts, adds Vakharia. How is endometriosis diagnosed? 'If you suspect you have endometriosis, it is a good idea to speak to your GP in the first instance, who will take a history from you and examine you,' advises Vakharia. 'Often, they will request an ultrasound of the pelvis and discuss the results with you.' However, endometriosis does not always show up on standard imaging, such as ultrasounds or MRIs. 'This is especially true in superficial endometriosis, where the signs can be very subtle or when the disease affects areas not easily visualised,' highlights Vakharia. 'If you have been told your scan is normal but have persistent symptoms, such as chronic pelvic pain, heavy periods, or pain during sex, it's essential to advocate for yourself and seek a specialist for further evaluation.' When should women seek medical help? 'It can be difficult to differentiate between 'normal' periods and 'heavy or painful' periods, as there is often no objective way of comparing,' says Mr Narendra Pisal, consultant gynaecologist at London Gynaecology. 'A lot of women just put up with that 'time of the month' and are told to get on with it. 'However, if you have to put your life on hold for those few days or if your sex life is affected by pain during sex, it is time to take note and ask for some tests.' Pisal acknowledges that it can be challenging for a GP to identify the root cause during a 10-minute appointment, so she suggests keeping a diary to track when your symptoms occur and how intense the pain is. 'Have a diary of your menstrual cycle with particular emphasis on heaviness, pain and any other symptoms with a system for indicating severity,' suggests Pisal. 'Also note down if you have to take painkillers and how many. If the symptoms are affecting your life and you have to take time off work, that is also a significant factor. ' What treatment options are available for endometriosis? 'Patients can be treated with the combined pill, progesterone-only pill, progesterone intrauterine device or surgery,' says Vakharia. 'Sometimes, we also use medications that induce a temporary menopause by blocking hormonal signals to the ovary which reduces stimulation of the endometriotic tissue. This option is often used before surgery for severe disease. 'A laparoscopy will allow diagnosis and excision of disease which can improve symptoms. In patients with severe disease, they may need a two-stage procedure.'
The Independent
6 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Watch: Ella Henderson opens up about endometriosis diagnosis
Pop star Ella Henderson has opened up about her struggles with endometriosis and is partnering with Endometriosis UK to support others affected. The condition occurs when cells similar to those in the lining of the womb grow elsewhere in the body, often causing pain, inflammation, and scar tissue. 'I've really, really been struggling not only with stomach bloating and physical pain, but also with my mental health … I wasn't really believed,' she shared on Instagram. 'I know my situation isn't unique,' she added. 'Too many women unnecessarily suffer with undiagnosed endometriosis.' She's promoting the charity 's tool that checks symptoms in one minute and creates a personalised letter for people to take to their GP.
Leader Live
6 days ago
- Health
- Leader Live
Ella Henderson shares endometriosis diagnosis in bid to ‘spread awareness'
The 29-year old, who found fame on the TV singing competition, The X Factor, in 2012, said that she was diagnosed in January after a laparoscopy revealed 'severe endometriosis' behind her uterus and scar tissue affecting her bladder and bowel. According to the NHS website, endometriosis is caused when cells similar to those in the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other parts of the body. A post shared by ELLA HENDERSON (@ellahendersonofficial) In a statement shared on her Instagram account on Wednesday, Henderson said she wants others suffering with the condition to know they are not alone. She said: 'After years of struggling with confusing and challenging health problems including stomach bloating, bowel pain and heavy periods, plus countless GP appointments leading to scans, tests and the feeling that maybe the pain was all in my head, I was officially diagnosed with endometriosis in January this year. 'My long journey to an endometriosis diagnosis is not unique. It takes on average up to nine years in the UK, which for many like me, can put an immense mental and physical toll on you. 'Living in chronic pain, not being believed, and constant misdiagnosis led to periods of depression, isolation and anxiety. If health practitioners had recognised my endometriosis symptoms sooner, I might have been spared all that.' Despite there not being a cure for endometriosis, there are treatments available that can help manage the pain including surgery which Henderson said had helped to 'significantly' reduce symptoms. She has since partnered with the charity, Endometriosis UK, to help raise awareness about the condition. She added: 'I don't want future generations of women to go through what I did. I know that my situation isn't unique, and too many women unnecessarily suffer with undiagnosed endometriosis for far too long. 'My hope is to be a voice for those still searching for answers and show those living with endometriosis that they're not alone. 'I want anyone living with this condition to feel a sense of empowerment and be enabled to take back control of their lives by knowing what is actually going on with their bodies. 'I believe it is so important that we begin to have more open conversations about menstrual health and endometriosis. 'Spreading awareness and knowledge by having wider discussions on the matter is key. 'The only way we can feel more comfortable and in control is by sharing our own experiences.' The Lincolnshire-born singer finished sixth on The X Factor where she went on to release her debut single Ghost which reached number one in the UK singles charts before releasing her debut studio album Chapter One.
