Latest news with #SmeetPatel
Hindustan Times
07-08-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Endometriosis specialist warns: Don't ignore asymptomatic endometriosis, says pay attention to these red flags
Endometriosis has often been characterised by its more noticeable symptoms—debilitating menstrual cramps, pelvic pain, and overwhelming fatigue. But what about those who exhibit none of these signs? Enter asymptomatic endometriosis, a lesser-known but equally concerning variant that can silently progress without warning. What happens inasymptomatic endometriosis? Why does it warrant attention? What can you do to safeguard your reproductive health? Endometriosis, thyroid conditions, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), and other conditions can interfere with the hormones in your body. (Shutterstock) Is asymptomatic endometriosis or silent endometriosis really silent? "Asymptomatic endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causing damage without presenting any noticeable symptoms", says Dr Smeet Patel, an Endometriosis Excision Specialist. Many women remain oblivious to its presence until it significantly impacts their fertility or overall pelvic health, as per the journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology. A staggering 30-40% of asymptomatic cases are often discovered inadvertently during fertility assessments or unrelated pelvic surgeries like cyst removal or hysterectomy, as per the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. Unfortunately, by this time, irreversible damage may have already occurred to the reproductive organs. What are the challenges of diagnosing endometriosis? One of the most prominent challenges with asymptomatic endometriosis lies in its elusive nature. There are currently no reliable non-invasive screening methods available, as per the journal Cancers: Lack of reliable tests: "Unlike other medical conditions, there's no definitive blood test, ultrasound, or MRI capable of detecting early-stage or symptom-free endometriosis. Some healthcare professionals might recommend the CA-125 test, commonly associated with ovarian cancer; however, its inaccuracy can lead to unnecessary surgeries due to false positives," shares Dr Patel. "Unlike other medical conditions, there's no definitive blood test, ultrasound, or MRI capable of detecting early-stage or symptom-free endometriosis. Some healthcare professionals might recommend the CA-125 test, commonly associated with ovarian cancer; however, its inaccuracy can lead to unnecessary surgeries due to false positives," shares Dr Patel. Invasive diagnostics: The gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis is laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Yet, it cannot serve as a routine screening tool when no symptoms are present, leaving a concerning gap in reproductive healthcare, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What are the risk factors of asymptomatic endometriosis? You may be asking yourself, 'If I have no symptoms, should I be concerned?' The answer largely depends on your risk factors and family planning goals. Fertility concerns: If you've been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success, a fertility evaluation is recommended, even in the absence of pain symptoms. If you've been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success, a fertility evaluation is recommended, even in the absence of pain symptoms. Family history: If endometriosis runs in your family, especially among first-degree relatives, your risk increases by up to tenfold. If endometriosis runs in your family, especially among first-degree relatives, your risk increases by up to tenfold. Autoimmune issues: Women with autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) or a history of allergies are also at a higher risk. Women with autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) or a history of allergies are also at a higher risk. Prior pelvic findings: If an ovarian cyst or any other pelvic condition was identified through imaging or during a surgical procedure, consulting a specialist is wise. 'In our practice, we frequently see asymptomatic women who only discover endometriosis after years of unexplained infertility or during IVF cycles. By then, lesions may have already damaged ovarian tissue or caused irreversible scarring" Dr Smeet Patel emphasises the importance of proactive care. Does asymptomatic endometriosis need to be treated? The absence of typical symptoms does not equate to a lack of impact on reproductive health, as per the World Health Organisation. Research indicates: Contribution to infertility: Up to 50% of infertility cases can be linked to undiagnosed endometriosis. Silent lesions can cause inflammation, scarring, and even lead to ovarian cysts (endometriomas), potentially damaging reproductive organs. Up to 50% of infertility cases can be linked to undiagnosed endometriosis. Silent lesions can cause inflammation, scarring, and even lead to ovarian cysts (endometriomas), potentially damaging reproductive organs. Impact on egg quality: Inflammation related to endometriosis can impair egg quality, disrupt ovulation, or obstruct the fallopian tubes—issues that often only surface when couples encounter difficulties conceiving. Dr Linda Griffith, a renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology researcher, aptly states, 'Endometriosis does not require pain to interfere with fertility. Inflammation can be enough to change egg quality or close up fallopian tubes.' Additionally, deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) can progress unnoticed, complicating future treatment options as per the International Journal of Fertility and Sterility. Why is the early detection of asymptomatic endometriosis important? While routine screening may not be essential for all women, being proactive can make a significant difference in their health. Here are some steps you can take:
India Today
01-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
Healing knows no gender : The taboo male gynaecologists still face in India
In a country where conversations around women's health are already shrouded in discomfort and silence, the idea of a male gynecologist continues to raise eyebrows. Despite decades of medical advancement and countless success stories from male doctors in the field, many women in India still hesitate-or outright refuse-to consult them. Cultural conditioning, privacy concerns, and a lingering sense of awkwardness have made this an ongoing stigma in clinics and hospitals across the understand the roots of this hesitation and how it impacts both patients and practitioners, we spoke to Dr. Smeet Patel, Endometriosis Specialist, an Endometriosis Specialist at Mayflower Women's Hospital in Ahmedabad. With years of experience in one of India's most sensitive medical specialities, he offers a unique perspective on navigating bias, building trust with patients, and the quiet but crucial shift he sees happening in attitudes-especially amongst younger, urban women. In a country where conversations around women's health are still considered taboo in many circles, how comfortable are Indian women really with consulting a male gynecologist what changes have you observed over time? In India, many women still prefer female gynaecologists, especially for consultations and intimate examinations-understandably so, as it helps them feel more comfortable and safe. However, when it comes to surgery, particularly in complex cases like endometriosis, experience often outweighs gender preference. We've seen many patients willingly opt for male surgeons when they know they're in expert hands. After all healing knows no gender. advertisementAt Mayflower, we have established a system that respects both comfort and competence: female gynaecologists attend all consultations, while our older male surgeons take care of surgery. This integrated system has served to build confidence and provide the best results. In the end, the larger problem isn't gender-it's misdiagnosis. So many women still endure because endometriosis isn't diagnosed or treated seriously. That's what we want to change: with both empathy and expertise. Despite your medical expertise, have you ever faced resistance or scepticism from patients or their families simply because you're a male gynaecologist? Have you faced resistance as a male gynaecologist?Yes, certainly-and I understand that. In a specialty that necessitates deep trust and emotional security, women understandably like to see female physicians, particularly initially. My approach is comfort first: all consultations and follow-ups are from female gynaecologists. When patients feel heard and secure in their care, they're willing to have the next step done-whether that's surgery or treatment of an advanced nature, usually taken care of by our male staff. The actual issue isn't gender-it's the lag in diagnosis and treatment. Far too many women are brushed off, misdiagnosed, or symptomatically treated. We concentrate on listening with intensity, teaching patients, and treating the source with accuracy. When your care is guided by compassion and outcomes, trust naturally is endometriosis so underdiagnosed in India?Endometriosis is a chameleon. It manifests as symptoms such as cramping during periods, fatigue, bloating, or back pain-complaints that are familiar and too frequently dismissed as "normal" by doctors and patients alike. This deep-seated cultural trivialization of women's pain is one of the largest hindrances to early takes 7 to 10 years on average for a woman to be accurately diagnosed. Some of the reasons are diagnostic limitations-ultrasound still largely dominates, and it usually misses deep and non-ovarian endometriosis. Although MRI is better at detection, it is highly dependent upon an eye that has been trained, and, alas, many of these radiologists are not trained to pick up the subtle of all, women are too often told, "It's all in your head," or put on cycles of pain medication and hormone pills with no clear diagnosis. This contributes to years of undiagnosed disease, emotional turmoil, and avoidable harm. At Mayflower, we've seen far too many women labeled with "unexplained infertility" or "chronic pelvic pain," only to later discover extensive endometriosis. Raising awareness among both patients and general practitioners is as important as advancing diagnostic does endometriosis impact fertility-and what myths do you see?Endometriosis often damages fertility silently. Nearly half of all women facing infertility may have undiagnosed endometriosis. It's not a surface problem-this condition causes pelvic adhesions, obstructs the fallopian tubes, creates ovarian cysts (also referred to as chocolate cysts), and interferes with the uterine environment in such a way that fertilization and implantation become impossible. Even the uterus itself can contract improperly, interfering with embryo most infuriating is the persistence of myths. "If your periods aren't painful, it's not endometriosis," or "Just have a baby-it'll go away." These lies postpone diagnosis and treatment, frequently resulting in irreparable harm. Worse yet, many women try multiple unsuccessful IVF attempts without ever fixing the underlying endometriosis. IVF is not a magic solution-it only works best when the disease is initially treated right. That's why we stress early diagnosis, full care, and attacking the cause of the disease, not merely pursuing symptoms or quick the rising awareness but still limited understanding of endometriosis in India, how accessible and affordable are fertility treatments for women struggling with this condition?Fertility clinics are common nowadays-but extremely few have experience treating endometriosis-caused infertility. The central treatment for such patients is not merely IVF-it's surgical removal of the disease. Here at Mayflower, with more than 20,000 endometriosis surgeries under our belt, our primary aim is always to return natural fertility. When surgery is performed correctly, many patients become pregnant spontaneously. And for those who still need IVF, the success rate is much better after to the correct treatment, at the correct time, is all that matters. It's not more procedures-it's the right way.- Ends
India.com
25-06-2025
- Health
- India.com
The Silent Killer: What Really Happens If Endometriosis Is Left Untreated
Many still mistake endometriosis for 'bad period cramps.' But what starts as subtle pain can evolve into a dangerous, life-altering disease if left unchecked. Endometriosis doesn't just disrupt your cycle, it can damage organs, steal fertility, and affect your mental health for life. Dr Smeet Patel, Endometriosis Specialist at Mayflower Women's Hospital, Ahmedabad, reveals why early diagnosis and real treatment, not just hormonal suppression, are crucial. The Progressive Nature of Endometriosis "Endometriosis is not just a menstrual nuisance, it's a progressive, invasive disease," says Dr. Smeet Patel. It begins with mild discomfort and period pain but can quickly escalate into persistent pelvic and back pain, painful sex, neuropathic flares, and widespread symptoms that go well beyond menstruation. It spreads silently, forming scar tissue (adhesions) that fuses organs together, sometimes pulling ovaries toward the pelvic wall or tethering the uterus to the rectum. Lesions aren't confined to reproductive organs; they may affect the bowel, bladder, ureters, and even reach as far as the diaphragm. A Web of Symptoms You Can't Ignore The symptoms often reflect the disease's invasive reach, painful urination (dysuria), painful bowel movements (dyschezia), and painful sex (dyspareunia). But the pain is not 'just in your head.' Endometriosis rewires your nervous system. "The chronic inflammation causes central sensitisation," Dr. Patel explains. "This means your nerves become hypersensitive. It's neurological, not psychological." Left untreated, this hypersensitivity leads to intense, daily suffering. Years of Silent Progression and Misdiagnosis One of the most chilling aspects of endometriosis? It can slowly destroy your body for years before anyone realizes. "The average diagnosis takes 7 to 10 years," Dr. Patel says. During this time, irreversible fertility damage may occur—like blocked fallopian tubes or ovarian endometriomas, often discovered only during infertility evaluations. Deep lesions can go unnoticed until they cause life-threatening complications—bowel obstructions, kidney swelling, and even cyclical lung or chest pain if they reach the diaphragm or lungs. Treatment That Doesn't Treat the Root Cause Hormonal therapies like birth control pills or GnRH agonists may ease symptoms, but they're not a cure. Dr. Patel warns, "They mask symptoms, allowing the disease to progress undetected. Long-term use can even cause bone loss and severe mood disorders." Surgery, too, can backfire if not done correctly. 'Ablation-only' surgeries that burn surface lesions often cause more scar tissue and worsen the pain. The gold standard is complete laparoscopic excision by a specialist, but few women worldwide can access this care. Beyond the Pelvis: Systemic Health Risks Endometriosis is not just a reproductive disorder. It's a whole-body inflammatory condition. Chronic inflammation increases levels of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-alpha), which are linked to autoimmune diseases and even heart disease. Worse still, long-standing cases have been associated with increased risk of certain ovarian cancers, particularly clear cell and endometrioid subtypes. The Psychological Toll: Trauma That's Often Overlooked Living with chronic pain for years, being dismissed by doctors, and facing delays in treatment takes a serious emotional toll. 'Many patients develop anxiety, depression, and even PTSD,' Dr. Patel says. "The trauma of not being believed is real and lasting." Women frequently report being gaslighted by healthcare providers, told it's 'normal,' or advised to 'just take a painkiller.' These dismissals create lasting mistrust in the medical system. Why Early Diagnosis Is Everything Hormonal suppression isn't a cure, it's a temporary mask. By the time symptoms become unbearable, the disease may have already done lasting damage. That's why it's crucial to listen to patients early, take their pain seriously, and pursue proper diagnostics. Final Word: Don't Ignore the Early Signs If you, or someone you love, suffers from severe menstrual pain, chronic pelvic aches, or unusual digestive or urinary symptoms, don't wait. Endometriosis doesn't slow down. Left untreated, it can impact every aspect of life: fertility, organ function, and mental well-being. Early diagnosis and proper excision surgery can drastically change outcomes. Believe women. Advocate for better care. Because when it comes to endometriosis, ignorance isn't just harmful, it can be deadly.
Hindustan Times
04-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Foods to support fertility in women with endometriosis
A fertility-promoting diet is a lifesaver for women with endometriosis, soothing inflammation, balancing hormones and creating a perfect environment for conception. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Smeet Patel, Endometriosis Specialist at Mayflower Women's Hospital in Ahmedabad, shared, 'Anti-inflammatory food is essential, with omega-3 rich foods like salmon, flaxseed and walnuts fighting the inflammatory effects of endometriosis.' According to Dr Smeet Patel, greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that enhance reproductive well-being. He revealed, 'Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower support estrogen metabolism, important in controlling the estrogen dominance frequently linked with endometriosis. Whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice and oats stabilise blood sugar levels and help balance hormones, minimizing insulin spikes that can exacerbate symptoms.' The expert added, 'Lean proteins such as organic chicken, eggs and vegetable sources including lentils and chickpeas contain amino acids needed for the formation and regulation of hormones and subsequently improving egg quality. Avocado, olive oil, and nuts deliver healthy fats needed for regulating hormones and reducing inflammation.' While foods such as beans, lentils and cereals fortify iron because patients with endometriosis lose a great deal of blood throughout their cycles, pumpkin seed, chickpeas, and shellfish zinc promote egg quality and reproductive wellness. Dr Smeet Patel pointed out, 'Fortified dairy products, fatty fish and sun vitamin D promote ovarian function and implantation. Hydration is equally important, with proper quantities of water utilized to remove toxins and support cellular function.' He suggested that steering clear of pro-inflammatory foods such as processed sugar, dairy, red meat, and trans fats can also enhance fertility. Dr Smeet Patel concluded, 'Healthy eating and lifestyle modifications like stress reduction and exercise can also greatly improve reproductive health in endometriosis women. There is no diet that can guarantee pregnancy but a healthy anti-inflammatory diet will improve fertility and overall health to its maximum capability, making it possible for women with endometriosis-associated infertility to become pregnant.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
