Endometriosis

Endometriosis

Whats is Endometriosis

Endometriosis (en-doe-me-tree-O-sis) is an often-painful condition in which tissue that is similar to the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It often affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining the pelvis. Rarely, endometriosis growths may be found beyond the area where pelvic organs are located.

Endometriosis tissue acts as the lining inside the uterus would — it thickens, breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. But it grows in places where it doesn’t belong, and it doesn’t leave the body. When endometriosis involves the ovaries, cysts called endometriomas may form. Surrounding tissue can become irritated and form scar tissue. Bands of fibrous tissue called adhesions also may form. These can cause pelvic tissues and organs to stick to each other.

Symptoms

The main symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. It’s often linked with menstrual periods. Although many people have cramping during their periods, those with endometriosis often describe menstrual pain that’s far worse than usual. The pain also may become worse over time.

  • Painful periods. Pelvic pain and cramping may start before a menstrual period and last for days into it. You also may have lower back and stomach pain. Another name for painful periods is dysmenorrhea.

  • Pain with sex. Pain during or after sex is common with endometriosis

  • Pain with bowel movements or urination. You're most likely to have these symptoms before or during a menstrual period.