ENDOMETRIOSIS
A disorder in which tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, called endometrium, grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and often leading to infertility. This tissue behaves like endometrial tissue, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding with each menstrual cycle, but because it has no way to exit the body, it becomes trapped.
Key Features:
- Ectopic Endometrial Tissue: The presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity.
- Chronic Inflammation: Persistent inflammation at sites of ectopic tissue, contributing to pain and scarring.
- Cyclic Bleeding: Similar to the menstrual cycle, leading to symptoms such as dysmenorrhea (painful periods), dyspareunia (painful intercourse), and chronic pelvic pain.
- Adhesions and Scarring: Fibrous bands that form between tissues and organs, causing them to stick together, often resulting in significant pelvic pain and complications such as bowel and bladder dysfunction.
Online References:
- Mayo Clinic: Provides an overview of endometriosis, including symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatments.
- Cleveland Clinic: Offers detailed information about endometriosis, including its impact on fertility and options for management and treatment.
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Describes the condition, its symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.