Content
Retrograde menstruation is a situation in which the menstrual blood, instead of leaving the uterus and being eliminated by the vagina, proceeds towards the fallopian tubes and pelvic cavity, spreading without having to leave during menstruation. Thus, fragments of endometrial tissue reach other organs such as ovaries, intestines or bladders adhere to their walls, grow and bleed during menstruation, causing many pains.
As the endometrial tissue is not eliminated correctly, it is common for retrograde menstruation to be related to endometriosis. However, it is also possible that some women with retrograde menstruation do not develop endometriosis, as their immune system is able to prevent the growth of endometrial cells in other organs.
Symptoms of retrograde menstruation
The symptoms of retrograde menstruation are not always noticed, as it is a natural condition in some women. However, in cases where retrograde menstruation causes endometriosis, symptoms such as:
- Shorter menses;
- Bleeding without normal signs of menstruation such as colic, irritability or swelling;
- Intense menstrual cramps;
- Pain in the bottom of the belly during menstruation;
- Infertility.
The diagnosis of retrograde menstruation is made by the gynecologist by observing the symptoms and exams such as endovaginal ultrasound and the CA-125 blood test, which is usually indicated in order to assess the person's risk of developing, endometriosis, cyst or ovarian cancer , for example.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for retrograde menstruation should be indicated by the gynecologist according to the signs and symptoms presented by the woman and risk of endometriosis. Thus, in most cases, the use of ovulation inhibiting drugs or use of the contraceptive pill may be indicated.
On the other hand, when retrograde menstruation is related to endometriosis, treatment may indicate the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics to relieve the symptoms of the disease. In some cases, it may be necessary to induce menopause to control endometriosis or perform surgery to correct problems in the fallopian tubes by preventing the backflow of menstrual blood into the abdominal region.