Health's Book

Definition

Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that behaves like the cells lining the uterus (endometrium) grows in other areas of the body, causing pain, irregular bleeding, and possible infertility.

The tissue growth (implant) typically occurs in the pelvic area, outside of the uterus, on the ovaries, bowel, rectum, bladder, and the delicate lining of the pelvis. However, the implants can occur in other areas of the body, too.

Symptoms

Pain is the main symptom for women with endometriosis. This can include:

* Painful periods
* Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic cramps that can be felt for a week or two before menstruation
* Pain in the lower abdomen felt during menstruation (the pain and cramps may be steady and dull or severe)
* Pain during or following sexual intercourse
* Pain with bowel movements
* Pelvic or low back pain that may occur at any time during the menstrual cycle

Note: Often there are no symptoms. In fact, some women with severe cases of endometriosis have no pain at all, whereas some women with mild endometriosis have severe pain.