The lining of the uterus is called endometrium. Endometriosis is the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. It is commonly found in the cul-de-sac, the tissue between the vagina and rectum behind the uterus. It can also be found on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, surface of the rectum and bladder and pelvic sidewalls.

Endometrial tissue outside the uterus acts the same way it does inside. This tissue breaks down and bleeds and can cause pelvic pain. The bleeding of this tissue can cause scar tissue, called adhesions.

SYMPTOMS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS

Pelvic pain is a major symptom of endometriosis and pain may also occur with bowel movements, urination or with intercourse. Endometriosis may cause spotting and infertility. The amount of pain is not an indication of how severe the endometriosis is. Some people with minimal pelvic pain have a severe condition. While others with severe pelvic pain may only have minimal endometriosis present, some women with endometriosis have no symptoms.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is confirmed through a procedure called a laparoscopy. The physician makes a small incision near the navel and the laparoscope is inserted to visualize the organs and tell the extent of the endometriosis.

TREATMENT

Treatment depends on your symptoms and whether you are still planning on having children in the future. Hormones may be used to relieve pain and help slow the growth of the endometrial tissue. Some physicians prescribe oral contraceptives to regulate periods and the menstrual flow is usually shorter and lighter when on the pills.

GnRH agonists (LUPRON) is a hormone that helps control the menstrual cycle. GnRH agonists lower estrogen levels by turning off the ovaries. This produces a temporary condition similar to menopause.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy is usually the last step in diagnosing endometriosis after these less invasive procedures have been used.