What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a disease in which cells that usually found in the lining of the womb, grow on other parts of the body. These include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder and vagina.

The problem with this is that these cells undergo the same monthly changes as the womb does which includes the shedding of the lining (bleeding) and swelling.

This is fine when it takes place in the womb as this bleeding leaves the body via the vagina as a menstrual period.

But when this bleeding occurs in another part of the body it has no means of escape so it stays inside that area and causes adhesions.

These adhesions cause organs and tissues to stick together which then causes problems with these organs, especially those situated near the womb.

Some people experience no symptoms with endometriosis but others find this a very painful condition. Symptoms include:

• Severe pain
• Painful bowel motions (and blood in the stool)
• Painful sex
• Back pain during monthly period
• Swollen lower abdomen
• Tiredness
• Unable to conceive

This condition affects 1 in 10 women in the UK. Treatment involves surgery to remove or break down these adhesions. This can be performed as keyhole surgery although severe cases may require open surgery.

Female Infertility Guide Index:

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• What are the causes of infertility in women?
• Can taking the pill cause infertility?
• What is Endometriosis?
• What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (POS)?
• What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

• What are Fibroids?
• Does a blocked fallopian tube mean that I am permanently infertile?
• I am 39 and finding it difficult to conceive, why is this?
• Can irregular periods cause infertility?
• What can go wrong with ovulation?

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