Endometriosis - the chameleon of gynaecology

Dr Imesch illustrated this with figures at the public lecture: In Switzerland, it takes an average of six to nine years for a woman to be diagnosed with endometriosis. This is despite the fact that around six to ten percent of women in their reproductive age are affected. It is not uncommon for patients to have seen at least five different doctors - the fifth is often also the psychiatrist. 

The reasons why the diagnosis takes so long are as varied as the manifestations of endometriosis. Dr Imesch explained that on the one hand, it is difficult to diagnose because endometriosis is not always immediately obvious during examinations (e.g. ultrasound) and it can have different forms. On the other hand, it is also a slightly forgotten disease, with comparatively few scientific studies on it. 

The manifestations range from pain, bloating, problems with bowel movements and urination to tiredness and fatigue. Gynaecologists therefore like to call endometriosis «the chameleon of gynaecology». 

For Dr Imesch, it is clear that a multimodal therapy approach provides the best results in the treatment of endometriosis. Surgery can help, but it does not necessarily have to be at the beginning of the «endometriosis life». Patients need a long-term therapy plan and individual care. 

After the lecture, Dr Imesch answered questions from the audience and was available for further questions at the joint aperitif. 

Further dates for upcoming public lectures can be found here.