After enduring years of severe abdominal pain and multiple misdiagnoses, 34-year-old Serah W., a medical tourist from Kenya, underwent a life-changing advanced laparoscopic surgery in Abu Dhabi. Her condition had not only caused her chronic pain but also dashed her hopes of conception and forced her to miss work and activities she loved.
Serah’s struggle began in her teenage years with monthly bouts of abdominal pain, fatigue, and mood swings. Unbeknownst to her, she had endometriosis, a condition where endometrial cells grow outside the uterus. This painful disorder affects about one in 10 women worldwide. Due to chronic pain, Serah often missed work and had to forgo activities like swimming and dancing. “Endometriosis greatly slowed down my life,” she said.
Seven years ago, after getting married, Serah faced infertility. A glimmer of hope emerged when she connected with Prof. Horace Roman, an Endometriosis Surgeon, and his team in Abu Dhabi. Traveling to the UAE capital, she was finally diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis.
Prof. Roman described Serah’s condition as “severe” and “infiltrating multiple organs.” “The patient had a very serious case of endometriosis that affected the rectum and sigmoid colon, causing partial blockage, and also involved the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the navel, resulting in a frozen pelvis,” explained Prof. Roman at Burjeel Medical City (BMC) in Abu Dhabi.
Collaborating with Dr. Rajive Paul Joy Chiriyankandath, Consultant in Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Dr. Ali Iyoob Valiyaveettil, Consultant & Head of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Prof. Roman devised a comprehensive treatment plan to remove the extensive endometrial lesions affecting Serah’s organs.
Advanced Laparoscopic Procedure
Utilizing cutting-edge technology, including the Da Vinci Robot, the surgical team performed a meticulous four-and-a-half-hour procedure on Serah. “The surgery was extensive, but most successful,” said Prof. Roman. “We removed the affected tissue from the organs. She will be able to lead a normal life and her probability to conceive naturally has reasonably increased.”
Reflecting on her journey, Serah said: “I would advise all those struggling with endometriosis not to give up and assume that life should be like this. We are endo warriors, and we are special.”
She expressed deep gratitude to her husband Stephen, whom she described as her pillar of strength. “My husband has been my fuel these last few years. He has felt my pain, held my hand, and even missed work to take care of me during my bad days. I’m blessed to have him,” she added, noting that prayer has also been a source of strength.
A Better Life Ahead
Post-surgery, Serah is filled with newfound hope and looks forward to a life free from pain and the possibility of motherhood. “Now that I have had surgery, I hope to lead a normal life with no pain and most of all, God willing, being a mum,” she said.
Endometriosis Symptoms to Watch Out For
Dr. Monika Chawla, Consultant on Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (IVF) from M42’s HealthPlus Fertility Center, highlighted the various symptoms of endometriosis, including pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues.
“Distinguishing it from typical menstrual pain can be challenging, but the severity, duration, and timing of the pain often serve as determining factors,” she said. “One common misconception is that endometriosis is merely severe menstrual cramps. However, it is a chronic condition that requires medical attention. Raising awareness about its prevalence, symptoms, and impact on fertility is crucial to ensure timely diagnosis and intervention,” Dr. Chawla added.