Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition characterized by a discovery of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus in other parts of the body. The endometrial stoma (tissue) and glands should only be located within the uterus. Endometriosis lesions may be found in the fallopian tubes, on the ovaries, and anywhere else in the pelvic cavity. Other sites where lesions may occur are the uterosacral ligaments, the rectal-vaginal septum, the recto-uterine pouch, caesarian-section scars, and laparoscopy or laparotomy scars. Some not so common locations include the bladder, bowels, intestines, colon, appendix and rectum. In the most rare occurrences, endometriosis has been found inside the vagina, bladder, on the skin, or in the lung, spine, or brain. Scar tissue and adhesions may also develop from endometriosis, and can also cause distortion of the female anatomy, even causing organs to fuse together. Pelvic pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis. This pain is often concurrent with menstruation, but may also occur during other points in a woman's cycle, and is often so debilitating that it may affect a woman's daily life. An estimated 30-40% of women with endometriosis suffer from infertility.