Endometriosis
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. These deposits can affect the ovaries, pelvic lining, bowel, bladder and other pelvic structures, leading to inflammation, scarring and pain. Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 7 Australian women and can have a significant impact on physical health, emotional wellbeing, relationships, work and fertility.
Our Current Understanding
Although understanding of endometriosis has improved considerably over recent years, many questions remain unanswered. Current research suggests that genetic, hormonal, immune and inflammatory factors all contribute to the development of the disease. Endometriosis is now recognised as a complex condition that extends beyond the pelvis and can affect multiple aspects of a woman's life. Importantly, the severity of symptoms does not always correlate with the extent of disease present, highlighting the need for an individualised approach to care.
What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?
Endometriosis can present in many different ways. Common symptoms include painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, bowel or bladder symptoms, fatigue and difficulty conceiving. Some women experience relatively mild symptoms, while others find that endometriosis significantly affects their quality of life, daily activities and overall wellbeing.
What are the treatment options for Endometriosis?
Management depends on a patient's symptoms, age, fertility goals and previous treatments. Options may include hormonal therapies, pain management strategies, physiotherapy, fertility treatment and surgery. The aim of treatment is not simply to manage the disease itself, but to improve symptoms, restore function and optimise quality of life.
Stage IV Endometriosis
Stage IV endometriosis represents the most advanced form of the disease and is often associated with ovarian endometriomas, extensive scar tissue and deep disease involving structures such as the bowel, bladder or ureters. Advanced disease can have a substantial impact on pain, organ function and fertility and may require a multidisciplinary approach to management. While Stage IV disease can be complex, treatment decisions are guided by symptoms, fertility goals and individual patient priorities rather than stage alone.
Dr Mathias' Approach
Dr Mathias has undertaken advanced fellowship training in endometriosis and advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery, including the management of complex and Stage IV endometriosis. Her approach focuses on understanding each patient's individual experience, symptoms and goals, recognising that no two patients experience endometriosis in the same way.
She believes that successful management extends beyond surgery alone and requires careful listening, shared decision-making and consideration of a patient's long-term wellbeing, fertility goals and quality of life. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual and based on the best available evidence. Dr Mathias values multidisciplinary collaboration and partners with a team of specialists and allied health professionals to support the best possible long-term outcomes for her patients.
Commitment to research and Long-Term Follow-Up
A particular area of interest for Dr Mathias is understanding how patients feel and function following treatment. While surgical findings remain important, outcomes such as pain relief, quality of life, return to normal activities, sexual wellbeing and fertility are often the measures that matter most to patients.
For this reason, patients may be invited to complete symptom and quality-of-life questionnaires before and after treatment. These patient-reported outcome measures help evaluate treatment effectiveness, guide ongoing care and contribute to research aimed at improving the future management of endometriosis.
As endometriosis is often a long-term condition, Dr Mathias is committed to providing continuity of care, ongoing follow-up and support throughout each stage of a patient's journey.
