Endometriosis

Quick Facts

  • When uterine tissue grows outside of the uterus.

  • May cause abdominal pain where it’s located.

  • Resulting pain usually controled by over-the-counter medications.

Endometriosis Doctors

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition in women causing lower abdominal pain. It can also lead to issues with fertility. The cause is uterine tissue being located outside of the uterus. It is unknown why this occurs.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The symptoms differ based on where this abnormal uterine tissue is located. If it the abnormal uterine tissue is on the ovary, it can cause a painful mass in the ovary.

Most common symptoms are:

  • Painful menstrual cycles
  • Pain with sex
  • Difficulty becoming pregnant
  • Chronic abdominal pain

Endometriosis Diagnosis

There is no specific test for this. The diagnosis is made from talking with your physician about your symptoms. It may also require surgery to see the abnormal tissue.

Treatment

  • Medications like NSAIDs (Motrin or Aleve) are usually used to control the pain.
  • Hormonal medications like birth control can be used to suppress or stop your cycle.
  • Sometimes surgery is performed. This is an attempt to remove the tissue.

FAQs

Can endometriosis affect your mood?

As with many conditions, chronic pain can make you more likely to anxiety and depression.

Can this condition cause bloating?

If the abnormal tissue is on the bowel, it can lead to inflammation there. This changes the normal stooling patterns.