What is Endometriosis?

This is a condition in which tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus is found elsewhere in the body, most often in the abdominal cavity. It can be found on the ovaries, pelvic sidewall, and fallopian tubes, but can be present in many other areas in the abdominal cavity. In rare cases, it can be found on the bladder, lungs, spine, brain and skin. The tissue bleeds, but the blood has nowhere to go and scar tissue forms, often causing pain. The cause of endometriosis is still unknown. It is not a disease, and therefore cannot be transferred from one person to another. Endometriosis most often affects women during the years they are menstruating, and is very rarely found in postmenopausal women.

Symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Pelvic pain - the most common symptom
• Pain before, during, or after menstruation
• Pain when urinating
• Pain in the lower back
• Pain during or after sexual intercourse
• Pain during ovulation
• Diarrhea, constipation and/or abdominal bloating connected with menstruation
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Fatigue
• Infertility

Diagnosis of endometriosis is normally done with a procedure known as a laparoscopy and a biopsy is taken of the tissue. This is a surgical procedure, and while somewhat invasive, is the best way to diagnose endometriosis.

Treatments of endometriosis include:

• Pain killers
• Hormonal treatments
• Nutritional therapy
• Behavioral therapy
• Surgery