Endometriosis

A condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows in other areas of the body, causing pain, irregular bleeding and possible infertility. The abnormal tissue growth typically occurs in the pelvic area, outside of the uterus, on the ovaries, bowel, rectum, bladder and the delicate lining of the pelvis. There are many symptoms of endometriosis including increasingly painful periods; lower abdominal pain or pelvic cramps that can be felt for a week or two before menstruation; lower abdominal pain felt during menstruation; pelvic or low back pain that may occur at any time during the menstrual cycle; pain during or following sexual intercourse; pain with bowel movements; premenstrual spotting; and infertility. Diagnostic tests and exams include a pelvic examination, pelvic ultrasound and laparoscopy. Treatment plans depend on the severity of a patient’s symptoms. Options include painkillers, inducing pseudopregnancy by stopping the menstrual cycle, hormonal therapy, anti-gonadotropin drugs, laparoscopy, laparotomy and hysterectomy.