Pune: Endometriosis is a complex and often underdiagnosed condition that many women silently endure, mistaking it for normal menstrual discomfort. It can significantly affect daily life, reproductive health, and overall well-being. In a recent case, years of unexplained pain in a young IT professional finally led to the diagnosis of a rare and advanced form of endometriosis — including kissing ovaries and widespread endometrial tissue across her abdomen.
Meenal (name changed), an IT professional, started experiencing lower back pain in 2020. Like many women, she blamed it on her sedentary job. As the discomfort escalated, she consulted an orthopedic specialist and underwent tests for kidney stones — all of which came back clear. Despite severe menstrual pain, she relied on painkillers, assuming it was normal.
Things took a turn when a gynecologist found two ovarian cysts and suggested advanced scans, which raised fears of a potential tumor. Seeking clarity, Meenal consulted Dr. Wing Commander Sushil D. Garud (Retd.), Consultant – Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Laparoscopic Surgery at Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi, Pune.
A biopsy ruled out cancer, but an MRI revealed a more complicated picture: her ovaries were fused behind the uterus — a rare condition known as kissing ovaries. She had two cysts, measuring 5x6 cm and 3x4 cm, and her intestines were adhered to them. This was linked to peritoneal endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining spreads to the peritoneum and affects multiple organs. The Pouch of Douglas was completely blocked.
Dr. Sushil performed a 90-minute laparoscopic surgery, removing both cysts and endometrial implants. He emphasized that draining or burning the cysts wouldn't have solved the issue — complete excision was necessary to prevent recurrence.
"Endometriosis affects around 10% of women and up to 50% of those struggling with infertility, yet its symptoms are often overlooked," said Dr. Sushil.
"Surgical intervention requires expertise — simply removing cysts is not enough. To effectively reduce pain and prevent recurrence, excising endometrial implants from all affected areas is crucial."
He added:
"Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often causing severe pain and fertility issues.
Women should not ignore persistent symptoms like intense period pain, painful intercourse, or unexplained infertility, as these could be signs of endometriosis.
If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as blocked fallopian tubes, ovarian cysts, and even impact fertility.
Alarmingly, even adolescents are increasingly being diagnosed with this condition, making early awareness and timely medical intervention crucial."
After surgery, Meenal was advised to focus on recovery with lifestyle adjustments — healthy eating, quality sleep, and hormone therapy if conception is delayed.
Meenal now urges other women not to dismiss their symptoms.
“I endured the pain for years thinking it was normal,” she said.
“It disrupted my sleep, affected my job, and even made me quit eventually. The surgery changed everything — I finally feel relieved.
My message to all women is: don’t normalize the pain. Persistent symptoms should never be ignored. Seek help early.”
Her case is a striking reminder that early diagnosis and expert intervention are key to managing conditions like endometriosis — often hidden, yet life-altering.
