It occurs when endometrial implants, comprised of tissue normally found within the uterus, are present in other areas of the body. As the tissue continues to thicken, break down, respond to menstrual cycle hormones, and bleed during the menstrual cycle, endometriosis forms deep inside the body.
Fast facts on endometriosis
Here are some key points about endometriosis. More information is in the main article.
- Endometriosis affects between 6 and 10 percent of women of reproductive age worldwide.
- The condition appears to be present in a developing fetus, but estrogen levels during puberty are thought to trigger the symptoms.
- Symptoms are generally present during the reproductive years.
- Most women go undiagnosed, and in the U.S. it can take around 10 years to receive a diagnosis.
- Allergies, asthma, chemical sensitivities, autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, ovarian cancer are linked to women and families with endometriosis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of endometriosis:
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Long-term lower-back and pelvic pain
- Periods lasting longer than 7 days
- Heavy menstrual bleeding where the pad or tampon needs changing every 1 to 2 hours
- Bowel and urinary problems including pain, constipation
- Bloody stool or urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Pain during intercourse
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
Diagnosis
If you have symptoms, call your gynaecologist and get tested and treated asap
