Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the presence of tissue resembling endometrium (the lining of the uterus) outside the uterus. It causes a chronic inflammatory reaction that may result in the formation of scar tissue (adhesions, fibrosis) within the pelvis and other parts of the body.
Several lesion types have been described.
– Superficial endometriosis found mainly on the pelvic peritoneum
– Cystic ovarian endometriosis (endometrioma) found in the ovaries
– Deep endometriosis found in the recto-vaginal septum, bladder, and bowel
– In rare cases, endometriosis has also been found outside the pelvis
Symptoms associated with endometriosis vary, and include a combination of
– Painful periods
– Chronic pelvic pain
– Pain during and/or after sexual intercourse
– Painful bowel movements
– Painful urination
– Fatigue
– Depression or anxiety
– Abdominal bloating and nausea
At present, there is no known way to prevent endometriosis.
Enhanced awareness, followed by early diagnosis and management may slow or halt the natural progression of the disease and reduce the long-term burden of its symptoms, including possibly the risk of central nervous system pain sensitisation, but currently there is no cure.
Studies show that women are at higher risk for endometriosis if they:
– Have a mother, sister, or daughter with endometriosis (1)
– Started their periods at an early age (before age 11) (2)
– Have short monthly cycles (less than 27 days) (2)
– Have heavy menstrual periods that last more than 7 days (2)
– Are infertile (2)
Some studies suggest that having a lean body mass or low body fat may increase a woman’s risk for endometriosis. (4)
Studies also show that some factors may lower the risk for endometriosis, including:
– Pregnancy (3)
– Periods that started late in adolescence (5)
– Breastfeeding (6)
– Eating more fruit, especially citrus fruits (7)