- What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where cells like the ones in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body.
Every month a woman’s body goes through hormonal changes. Hormones are naturally released which cause the lining of the womb to increase in preparation for a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur, this lining will break down and bleed – this is then released from the body as menstruation. Endometriosis cells react in the same way – except that they are located outside the womb. During the monthly cycle hormones stimulate the endometriosis, causing it to grow, then break down and bleed. This internal bleeding, unlike a period, does not leave the body. This leads to inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue (adhesions).
- Where can it be found?
Endometriosis is most commonly found inside the pelvis, around the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, on the outside of the womb or the ligaments (which hold the womb in place), or the area between your rectum and your womb, called the Pouch of Douglas. It can also be found on the bowel, the bladder, the intestines, the vagina and the rectum. Endometriosis can grow in existing scars from previous operations. In rare cases, it has been found in other parts of the body such as the skin, the eyes, the spine, the lungs and the brain. The only site that endometriosis has not been found is the spleen.
- What Endometriosis is not:
- Endometriosis is not an infection.
- Endometriosis is not contagious.
- Endometriosis is not cancer.
The significant impact of Endometriosis on a woman’s life includes an inability to conceive, chronic pain, depression, isolation, difficulty in fulfilling marital, work and social commitments etc. With the right treatment however, these issues can be addressed, and the symptoms can be more manageable.