Before we begin: Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other places in the body. Symptoms include pain, heavy bleeding during your period and infertility. There is no cure but .
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about endometriosis. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is endometriosis? The uterus, or womb, is the place where a fetus grows during pregnancy. The uterus is lined with tissue (endometrium). Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue like the lining of the uterus grows in other places in your body. These patches of tissue are called “implants,” “nodules,” or “lesions.” They are most often found:
On or under the ovaries
On the fallopian tubes, which carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus
Behind the uterus
On the tissues that hold the uterus in place
On the bowels or bladder
In rare cases, the tissue may grow on your lungs or in other parts of your body.
What causes endometriosis? Researchers don’t know what causes endometriosis.
Who is at risk for endometriosis? Endometriosis can affect anyone who menstruates. Certain factors can raise or lower your risk of getting it.
You are at higher risk if:
You have a mother, sister, or daughter with endometriosis
Your period started before age 11
Your monthly cycles are short (less than 27 days)
Your menstrual cycles are heavy and last more than 7 days
You have a lower risk if:
You have been pregnant before
Your periods started late in adolescence
You breastfeed your babies
What are the symptoms of endometriosis? The main symptoms of endometriosis are:
Pelvic pain, which often happens during your period
Infertility
Other possible symptoms include:
Painful menstrual cramps, which may get worse over time
Pain during or after sex
Pain in the intestine or lower abdomen
Pain with bowel movements (pooping) or urination (peeing), usually during your period
Heavy periods
Spotting or bleeding between periods
Digestive or gastrointestinal symptoms
Fatigue or lack of energy
How is endometriosis diagnosed? Surgery is the only way to know for sure that you have endometriosis. First, however, your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You will have a pelvic exam and may have some imaging tests.
The most common surgery to diagnose endometriosis is a laparoscopy. This is a type of surgery that uses a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera and light. The surgeon inserts the laparoscope through a small cut in the skin near your belly button. Your provider can make a diagnosis based on how the patches of endometriosis look. They may also do a biopsy to get a tissue sample.
What are the treatments for endometriosis? There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments for the symptoms. Your provider will work with you to decide which treatments would be best for you.
Treatments for endometriosis pain include:
Pain relievers, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and a prescription medicine specifically for endometriosis. Providers may sometimes prescribe opioids for severe pain.
Hormone therapy, which stops the ovaries from making hormones. This may slow the growth of the endometrial tissue and may stop new areas from growing. Types of hormone therapy include:
Birth control pills.
Progestin therapy.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) medicines (GnRH agonists and antagonists). These medicines cause a temporary menopause. After your stop taking the medicines, your menstrual periods will start again, and pregnancy is possible.
Surgical treatments for severe pain, including procedures to remove the endometriosis patches or cut some nerves in the pelvis. The surgery may be a laparoscopy or major surgery.
Treatments for infertility caused by endometriosis include:
Laparoscopy to remove the endometriosis patches
In vitro fertilization
NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
Also known as: Endo.
Related topics: Adenomyosis.
Categories: Women, Female Reproductive System.
Source: National Institutes of Health — Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
Key Takeaways
Understanding endometriosis is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.