Endometriosis Signs

Endometriosis is a condition that can affect females of any post-pubescent age. It has a wide range of complications because it can affect many areas of a woman's reproductive system, as well as any areas of the body adjacent to the reproductive organs. In less serious cases, this condition can cause discomfort and bleeding. In more severe cases, endometriosis can lead to debilitating conditions, including painful monthly periods, bowel and urinary tract problems and even infertility.

What Is Endometriosis?

• The uterus is lined with endometrial tissue that serves as a nesting area for eggs that will be prepared for fertilization during the menstrual cycle. If pregnancy does not occur, the endometrial tissue that was enhanced for fertilization is discarded by the body during menses (menstrual bleeding). The presence of endometrial tissue anywhere but the lining of the uterus is what is known as endometriosis.

Signs

• Common symptoms of endometriosis are pelvic pain, usually directly before or during menstruation; painful urination and bowel movements; pain during pelvic examinations; and painful intercourse. The specific area where pain occurs depends on where the endometrial tissue outside the uterus (known as implants) is found. There are no specific symptoms of endometriosis that can be diagnosed without a more thorough examination, which generally does not happen without more serious complications being present.

Diagnosing Endometriosis

• A doctor or gynecologist might decide to begin more extensive examinations if the signs of unusually persistent pelvic pain and menstrual cramping are present. A physical examination for nodules, resulting from endometrial implants, might be conducted in the vagina and rectum. Ultrasound can be helpful in some cases to rule out other pelvic problems. The most reliable method of diagnosis requires a laparoscopy (a small incision in the navel) or a laparotomy (a large incision through the stomach).

Causes

• There is currently no conclusive data about the exact cause of endometriosis. However, most studies have pointed to an association of this condition with the production of estrogen hormones. Although the cause of this chemical reaction has not yet been specifically identified, the currently accepted method of treating the symptoms of endometriosis focuses on adjusting and monitoring estrogen levels with hormone therapy. This is not, however, considered a cure for the condition.

Treatment

• Because conclusive knowledge of the exact cause of endometriosis does not exist, the treatment of the condition will depend on the symptoms and the affected areas. Pain medications might be prescribed as well as hormone therapy to address the suspected correlation with estrogen. Surgery might be required in some cases, such as a hysterectomy, yet endometrial implants have been found in women who have had a hysterectomy.