Endometriosis
Description
A painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus — the endometrium — grows outside your uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining your pelvis.
Common Symptoms
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Pain with intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Excessive bleeding
- Infertility
- Fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.
Common Causes
- The exact cause is uncertain, but possibilities include retrograde menstruation, immune system disorders, and transportation of endometrial cells through blood vessels or lymphatics.
Treatment Information
Pain medication, hormone therapy (like birth control pills), and minimally invasive surgery to remove the endometriosis tissue. There is no cure.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.