What is Endometriosis?

by LiveScience Staff

Date: 12 September 2012 Time: 05:22 PM ET

Definition of Endometriosis: A disorder in which the tissue that lines the uterus, the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus. Endometriosis can cause pain, internal scar tissue and fertility problems. The NIH estimates 2 to 10 percent of women in their reproductive years have endometriosis. Below is a brief overview of the causes, symptoms and treatments, plus links to more information.

What Causes Endometriosis? Scientists do not know what causes endometriosis. Theories include a genetic cause, that endometrial tissue backs up the fallopian tubes during menstruation and takes hold in the pelvis, or that some cells retained their embryonic ability to grow into several different tissues and grow into endometrial lining in the wrong place.

Is Endometriosis Contagious? No.

Signs & Symptoms:

Very painful periods, although not all women have this symptom
Pain with bowel movements or urination during periods
Excessive menstrual bleeding
Spotting between periods
Gastrointestinal problems during menstruation
Infertility

Treatment & Remedies: Treatment may include pain medicine of various strengths, hormones to reduce endometrial growth each month and surgery in some cases. Surgery may be conservative laparoscopy to remove scar tissue and endometrial growths, or in severe cases, a complete hysterectomy.

More Facts:

Endometrial tissue in the abdomen breaks down each month, but has nowhere to go. This can cause scars and infertility.
Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases, according to the NIH.
About 30 to 40 percent of women with endometriosis have problems with infertility.

Sources and More Information:

This information is not meant to provide specific medical advice. It is for educational purposes only. We recommend you consult a qualified health care professional for diagnoses and treatment advice, and call 9-1-1 in emergencies.