Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition resulting from the appearance of endometrial tissue outside of its normal location in the uterus. Endometriosis can be found in the pelvis. It frequently is found behind the uterus and on the ovaries.

Some less common sites may include the vagina, cervix, bladder and bowel. Many women with endometriosis are asymptomatic and the finding can be completely incidental. Some of the more common symptoms include:

Painful periods (dysmenorrhea). Pelvic pain and cramping may begin before your period and extend several days into your period. You may also have lower back and abdominal pain.
Pain with intercourse. Pain during or after sex is common with endometriosis.
Pain with bowel movements or urination. You're most likely to experience these symptoms during your period.
Excessive bleeding. You may experience occasional heavy periods (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (menometrorrhagia).
Infertility. Endometriosis is first diagnosed in some women who are seeking treatment for infertility.
Other symptoms. You may also experience fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.

Endometriosis can be a challenging condition to manage. An understanding of your diagnosis may result in better management of your symptoms. Treatment for endometriosis depends on the extent of the disease, your symptoms, and whether you want to have children. Endometriosis may be treated with medication, surgery, or both.