Endometriosis is a condition that affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus (endometrium) grows outside of the uterus, most commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining the pelvis. The endometrial tissue continues to act like the tissue that lines the uterus, thickening, breaking down and bleeding with each menstrual cycle. This can lead to inflammation and pain, as well as other symptoms.
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. This pain can range from mild to severe, and is typically felt in the lower abdomen, lower back, and/or the pelvis. The pain can occur before, during, or after a menstrual cycle, and is often accompanied by cramping. Other symptoms of endometriosis include heavy menstrual bleeding, changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea, painful intercourse, and infertility.
If endometriosis is left untreated, the condition can worsen over time, leading to more severe symptoms and complications. Endometriosis can cause adhesions, or scar tissue, in the pelvic cavity. This can lead to infertility, as the scar tissue can block the fallopian tubes or cause problems with the ovaries. Endometriosis can also cause cysts known as endometriomas to form on the ovaries, which can cause more pain and infertility.
Treatment for endometriosis varies depending on the severity of the condition. Milder cases may be managed with medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal contraceptives. For more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the endometrial tissue and/or cysts. In some cases, doctors may also recommend lifestyle changes such as exercise, dietary modifications, and stress reduction techniques.
It is important to talk to your doctor if you think you may have endometriosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.