Women's reproductive health and fertility are affected by numerous factors, from lifestyle to environmental factors, including diet, stress, medication, pollution, and hormonal cycles. Even minor disruptions can throw the body's delicate hormonal balance off course. Hence, women must proactively opt for periodic health checkups, treatments, and medications to maintain reproductive and menstrual health.

One chronic condition that challenges this balance is endometriosis. It is a health condition that affects women's reproductive health. It not only causes pain and discomfort but also impacts fertility and overall well-being. Fortunately, innovations in contraceptive options are opening up safer and more effective avenues for managing this condition.

This article explains what endometriosis is and explores the contraceptive innovations that help manage endometriosis.

What is Endometriosis and What Causes It?

Usually, the endometrial wall is found only inside the uterus. Endometriosis is a condition where this endometrium grows outside the uterus, mainly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the pelvic lining. Growing out of place, these tissues behave the same way as they would inside the uterus, i.e. responding to the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, thickening and breaking down.

However, unlike the endometrium inside the uterus, these tissues cannot exit the body during menstruation. So, they cause inflammation, pain, and sometimes the formation of scar tissue. The exact cause of endometriosis is still not clear, but contributing factors may include:

• Retrograde menstruation (a condition where menstrual blood flows into the pelvic cavity through the fallopian tube during menstruation)
• Hormonal imbalance
• Immune system dysfunction
• Genetics and family history

How Does Endometriosis Affect Women's Reproductive Health?

Endometriosis causes chronic pelvic pain during menstruation, irregular menstrual cycles, heavy bleeding, and blockage of reproductive organs that can cause infertility, inflammation, and hormonal imbalance. Loss of hormonal balance affects ovulation and menstrual health, and endometriosis can lead to infertility. Early diagnosis and proactive treatment are vital.

What Are the Current Treatment Options for Endometriosis?

Treatment depends on symptom severity and fertility goals. Options include:

• Pain relievers for cramps and inflammation
• Hormonal therapies including oral contraceptive pills (OCPs)
• Surgical removal via laparoscopy
• Lifestyle changes: diet, exercise, stress reduction

Birth Control and Endometriosis: How Is It Treated Using Hormonal OCPs?

Hormonal OCPs containing oestrogen and progestin help by:

• Suppressing ovulation and reducing oestrogen levels, which limits endometrial growth
• Stabilising hormone levels to reduce pelvic pain, cramping, and bleeding
• Regulating the menstrual cycle and reducing symptoms of dysmenorrhea
• Delaying lesion progression by controlling hormonal environment

However, OCPs may cause weight gain, nausea, mood swings, digestive issues, mental health concerns, and hormonal imbalance. They are not suitable for everyone.

What Are the New Contraceptive Options for Endometriosis Treatment?

Innovative methods in development include:

• Cabergoline (non-hormonal dopamine receptor agonist)
• Non-hormonal hydrogel-based contraceptive implants
• Progestin-eluting IUDs for targeted hormonal delivery

Saheli: A Contraceptive Innovation Ahead of Its Time

Saheli Plus, developed in India, is a non-hormonal oral contraceptive using Centchroman (a SERM). It:

• Does not modulate reproductive hormones
• Preserves hormonal balance and menstrual regularity
• Is reversible, weekly-dosed, and side-effect free
• Is backed by decades of research and public health usage

For women who experience side effects from hormonal OCPs, Saheli Plus offers effective contraception without hormonal complications.

Final Thoughts

Endometriosis disrupts the physical, emotional, and reproductive well-being of women. While hormonal treatments provide some relief, they also carry risks. Non-hormonal options like Saheli Plus allow women to take charge of their reproductive health without sacrificing well-being. As awareness and access grow, more women can benefit from such safe and empowering solutions.

FAQs

1. What is the best contraceptive for endometriosis?
Hormonal pills are often prescribed, but non-hormonal options like Saheli Plus can help manage symptoms without affecting hormonal balance.

2. How does birth control manage endometriosis?
Birth control suppresses ovulation and reduces oestrogen levels, limiting endometrial tissue growth and easing pain.

3. Which hormone is bad for endometriosis?
Excessive oestrogen can worsen endometriosis by stimulating the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

4. What is the best way to prevent endometriosis?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent it, but early diagnosis, hormonal management, and healthy habits may reduce severity.