Endometriosis / Adenomyosis
Endometriosis is when tissue that is normally in the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It may be painful and can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel and possibly other places in the pelvic cavity. Sometimes it can even grow outside the pelvis.
Growths or Lesions
This misplaced tissue develops into growth or lesions which respond to the menstrual cycle in the same way that the tissue of the uterine lining does, but the blood and tissue shed from endometrial growths has no way of leaving the body. The result, is internal bleeding, breakdown of the blood and tissue and inflammation. The inflammation can cause adhesions, which is scar tissue that can cause infertility.
Endometriosis Causes
Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition especially for women of childbearing age. The cause of endometriosis is unknown but one theory suggests, during menstration some of the tissue backs up through the fallopian tubes into the abdomen, where it attaches and grows. Our doctors provide highly effective treatment to patients who are found to need it.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis
With endometriosis, these symptoms may occur:
- Abnormal menstration
- Pain during intercourse
- Painful urination or bowel movements during menstrual period
- Fatigue
- Cramps and menstrual pain
- Pelvic pain
- Infertility – trouble getting pregnant (endometriosis)
Endometriosis Stages
The endometriosis/adenomyosis stages compared to the level of severity are as followes: stage 1- minimal, stage 2- mild, stage 3- moderate, and stage 4- severe. Staging of this condition depends on the number, size, and site of the implants. The stage depends on other factors such as the location, amount, depth, and size of the endometriosis implant. Pain does not determine the severity; some patients in a severe stage may not feel pain while some in stage 1 feel a lot of pain.
Learn More about Treatment & Surgical Options for Endometriosis
PN 1002240 Rev B 01/2014
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health. FAQs. Available from:http://womenshealth.gov/
