Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar
to the lining of the uterus (the endometrial stroma
and glands, which should only be located inside the
uterus) is found elsewhere in the body.
Endometriosis lesions can be found anywhere in the
pelvic cavity: on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes,
and on the pelvic sidewall. Other common sites include
the uterosacral ligaments, the cul-de-sac, the Pouch
of Douglas, and in the rectal-vaginal septum.
In addition, it can be found in caecarian-section
scars, laparoscopy or laparotomy scars, and on the
bladder, bowel, intestines, colon, appendix, and rectum.
In rare cases, endometriosis has been found inside
the vagina, inside the bladder, on the skin, even
in the lung, spine, and brain.
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic
pain. The pain often correlates to the menstrual cycle,
but a woman with endometriosis may also experience
pain that doesn’t correlate to her cycle. For
many women, the pain of endometriosis is so severe
and debilitating that it impacts their lives in significant
ways.
Endometriosis can also cause scar tissue and adhesions
to develop that can distort a woman’s internal
anatomy. In advanced stages, internal organs may fuse
together, causing a condition known as a "frozen
pelvis."
It is estimated that 30-40% of women with endometriosis
are infertile.
If you or someone you care about has endometriosis,
it is important to research the disease as much as
possible. Many myths and misconceptions about endometriosis
still persist, even in medical literature. For many
women, management of this disease may be a long-term
process. Therefore, it is important to educate yourself,
take the time to find a good doctor, and consider
joining a local support group.
More information
on:
>> Symptoms
>> Diagnosis
>> Causes
>> Treatments
>>
Finding a centre of excellence/endometriosis
specialist
>> Preparing
for your first consultation
>> Support groups
across the world
