Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue inside of the woman’s uterus spreads and attaches to other areas such as the ovaries, the uterus’s outer surface, fallopian tubes, the pelvic cavity’s lining, or other parts of the lower abdomen. The misplaced tissue still responds to a woman’s monthly cycle.  But unlike the tissues and fluids within the uterus, the tissue from endometriosis has nowhere to go as it cannot expel. This can result in scarring and inflammation around the endometrial areas.

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

-          Pain prior to menstruation in the lower abdomen or painful cramps

-          Pain during menstruation in the lower abdomen

-          Pain during or after sexual intercourse

-          Painful bowel movements

-          Abnormal menstrual bleeding

-          Infertility

*Note- There can also be no symptoms of endometriosis even in severe cases.

Endometriosis can be treated.  Treatments may include hormone therapy, surgery or sometimes both.  The pain can also be treated with nonprescription pain relievers (if it is mild to moderate pain). If the pain is more severe, prescription medications may be needed. Some women have found relief in activities such as exercise, meditation, biofeedback and acupuncture.

Endometriosis is a commonly occurring condition.  The cause is unknown. However, risk factors have been identified which include starting menstruation at an early age, periods that last seven or more days, never having had children, frequent menstrual cycles, and problems such as a closed hymen, which blocks menstrual blood flow during the period. Also, a woman who has a relative such as a mother or sister with the condition is six times more likely to develop it as well.

Treatments of Endometriosis cannot cure the condition.  However, the symptoms can be    partially or completely relieved for a number of years.

Tests that are done which can diagnose endometriosis include pelvic exam, pelvic, laproscopy, and transvaginal ultrasound.