An Overview of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common disorder that is extremely painful for women. The endometrium is a layer of tissue that lines the inside of the uterus. However, in endometriosis, a tissue that is similar to the endometrium grows outside the uterus. Other organs that can be involved include ovaries and the fallopian tubes. During a woman's normal menstrual cycle, the endometrium is able to break down and shed. However, when patients have endometriosis, the endometrial-like tissue is not able to exit the body as normal tissue would. Thus, the tissue becomes trapped and can irritate other tissue. Scar tissue and adhesions may develop within the uterus.

Symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Pelvic pain

• Painful periods

• Pain with intercourse

• Pain with bowel movements

• Excessive bleeding

• Infertility

• Fatigue

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Nausea

Risk factors of endometriosis include never giving birth, starting period at an early age, starting menopause at an older age, short menstrual cycles, heavy menstrual periods for longer than 7 consecutive days, higher estrogen levels, low BMI, family history of endometriosis or disorders of the reproductive tract.

Endometriosis can be diagnosed through a pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI or laparoscopy. Treatment of endometriosis includes pain medication, contraceptives, or progestin therapy. Severe cases may require fertility treatment or conservative surgery.

References:

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2018, July 24). Endometriosis. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved August 29, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656#:~:text=Endometriosis%20en%2Ddoe%2Dme,the%20tissue%20lining%20your%20pelvis