OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Clarity on Pelvic MRI Results: A Patient's Perspective

I am a 30-year-old woman, standing at 165 cm tall and weighing 60 kg, who has been diagnosed with endometriosis. Although I aspire to become a mother at some point in the future, I envision waiting around five years before trying to conceive. It has been more than six months since my pelvic MRI was performed, and I've faced continuous delays from the NHS regarding my follow-up appointment. While this might suggest that there is no immediate cause for concern, I would greatly appreciate a medical professional's insight into my scan findings: - The uterus is retroflexed, measuring 8.6 by 3.6 by 5.4 cm, and there are no unusual lesions noted in the myometrium. - The intrauterine contraceptive device is positioned correctly. The endometrium appears thin, displaying a uniform high T2 signal, and no distinct endometrial lesions are present. Its thickness at the fundus is 4 mm. - Both the cervix and vagina show normal appearance. - There is a polycystic structure in both ovaries, along with a 2.8 cm endometrioma in the right ovary characterized by low T2 signal intensity and hemorrhagic content. No suspicious mural lesions or adnexal masses are observed. - A plaque indicative of disease is affecting the right uterosacral ligament, measuring 12 by 31 mm, likely contributing to the uterus's retroversion. This plaque also affects the distal part of the sigmoid serosa, but there’s no extension seen into the mucosa. The right endometrioma is noted, but no signs of hematosalpinx or hydrosalpinx are present. - There is a minimal amount of physiological free fluid in the pelvis. No lesions on the omentum or peritoneum were found, and no swollen abdominal or pelvic lymph nodes are reported. - The upper abdominal organs, which were partially scanned, appear normal with no concerning hepatic lesions. There are no signs of hydronephrosis, and although the bowel was partially imaged, it seems normal as well. The appendix isn’t separately identifiable, and there are no suspicious findings related to bone. In summary, the findings indicate the presence of deep pelvic endometriosis, particularly a dense plaque involving the right uterosacral ligament and the right endometrioma. If someone close to you—be it a daughter, sister, or wife—received these MRI results, what advice or reassurance would you offer her?

Answers (1)

4/3/2025, 9:10:50 AM

OpenHealth AI

Your MRI results show several aspects of endometriosis, which can understandably raise concerns as you plan for the future and consider motherhood. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings and what’s important to focus on:

Main Findings:

1. Endometrioma in the Right Ovary: This cystic structure is common in women with endometriosis but requires monitoring.
2. Pelvic Adhesions: The plaque affecting the right uterosacral ligament suggests deeper pelvic endometriosis, which may influence fertility and pain.
3. Normal Pelvic and Abdominal Organs: Other organs appear normal, which is reassuring.

Explanation:

Endometriosis can affect fertility, but many women with the condition conceive successfully. The presence of an endometrioma and adhesions may influence this, but they are manageable, especially with time and appropriate medical care. Since you're not planning to conceive for another five years, focusing on managing symptoms and monitoring changes is essential.

Priority Next Steps:

1. Track Symptoms: Keep a journal of any pain, menstruation changes, or other symptoms. This information will be useful for future healthcare professionals.

2. Lifestyle Adjustments:

   • Maintain a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish).
   • Regular exercise can help alleviate some symptoms and maintain a healthy weight.
   • Stress management techniques, such as yoga or meditation, may also be beneficial.

3. Schedule Follow-ups: As you're experiencing delays with your NHS appointments, consider contacting them to advocate for timely follow-up care. Staying proactive in your healthcare is crucial.

4. Seek Support: Consider reaching out to local or online support groups for women with endometriosis. They can provide emotional support and practical advice based on shared experiences.

Reassurance:

While the presence of endometriosis can be concerning, many women successfully manage their symptoms and conceive later. It’s encouraging that your follow-up care is on the horizon, and being proactive about your health will enhance your future pregnancy journey.