Endometriosis is a medical condition affecting around 10 percent of women during their reproductive years. It occurs when endometrial-like cells, typically found in the uterus’s lining, grow in other regions, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and in rare instances, the urinary tract.

Can endometriosis cause bladder pain?

Yes, it can. This article provides an in-depth understanding of how endometriosis can affect the bladder, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and implications on patients’ lives.

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory, systemic and disruptive condition. The endometrial-like cells develop into tissue implants outside the uterus. These tissues go through the same cycle as normal endometrial cells — they thicken, break down and bleed with each menstrual cycle. However, unlike the regular uterine cells expelled through menstruation, these implants have no exit, causing cysts, irritation, and scar tissue.

Endometriosis and the Urinary Tract

Urinary tract endometriosis (UTE) is a less common form of this condition. In these cases, endometriotic implants grow inside or on the surface of urinary organs, most commonly the bladder and ureter. The bladder’s involvement is often referred to as bladder endometriosis.

Types of Bladder Endometriosis

Bladder endometriosis can be classified into two categories:

Superficial Endometriosis — The endometriosis is found on the bladder’s outer surface.
Deep Endometriosis — The endometriosis penetrates the bladder muscle, potentially causing a nodule that can also affect the ureter.

What are the Symptoms of Bladder Endometriosis?

The discomfort and symptoms associated with bladder endometriosis typically intensify in the days leading up to and during menstruation. Some of the common symptoms include:

Bladder irritation
An urgent or frequent need to urinate
Pain when the bladder is full
Occasional blood in the urine during a period
Loin pain in the area of the kidneys

It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience one or two symptoms, while others may experience a combination. Moreover, around 30 percent of women with bladder endometriosis may not experience any symptoms at all.

What Causes Bladder Endometriosis?

While the exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, findings of ectopic endometrial-like cells in human female fetuses and multiple genes associated with diseases such as fibroids and adenomyosis, indicate and state an embryologic and genetic origin.

Diagnosing Bladder Endometriosis

The diagnosis of bladder endometriosis involves a medical history review, physical examination, and several diagnostic tests. These may include a vaginal examination, ultrasound, urine sample analysis, cystoscopy, laparoscopy, and potentially a CT or MRI scan if deep endometriosis is suspected.

Treatment Options for Bladder Endometriosis

Bladder endometriosis treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the endometriosis, and the patient’s personal circumstances, such as their age and future pregnancy plans.

Medical Management

Hormone therapy and pain medications can help manage the symptoms. Hormonal treatments like the contraceptive pill and hormonal IUD may stop periods, slowing the growth of abnormal tissue but not eliminating existing growths. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may help those with mild symptoms.

Surgical Management

For severe cases or when medical treatments are ineffective, surgery may be required. Surgical options may include partial cystectomy, which involves removing the affected part of the bladder, depending on the extent of the disease.

Implications on Patients’ Lives

Bladder endometriosis can significantly impact patients’ quality of life. The pain can be severe, disrupting daily activities and mental health, potentially leading to depression and anxiety. In rare cases, untreated endometriosis can spread to the ureters, potentially damaging the kidneys.

Conclusion

Understanding bladder endometriosis — its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options — can empower individuals to proactively seek medical help when they notice unusual symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of bladder endometriosis, it is crucial to discuss them with a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

References:

https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/endometriosis-and-bladder

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321439

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7650710/

https://www.theendometriosisfoundation.org/bladder-endometriosis

https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/bladder-endometriosis

Can Endometriosis Cause Bladder Pain? A Comprehensive Guide