Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects females. It occurs when the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus that is shed during menstruation, begins growing in other areas of the body. The reasons for this are not well understood. The endometrial tissue can accumulate in the abdomen, on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, vagina, cervix and vulva. As this tissue builds in areas where it is normally not found, endometriosis symptoms can occur in the body.
Bleeding and Inflammation
The Endometriosis Association states that this abnormal buildup of tissue can lead to internal bleeding and inflammation. This can make menstrual periods and intercourse painful. Scar tissue and adhesions can develop in the affected areas, which can lead to abdominal and pelvic pain or discomfort.
Abdominal and Back Pain
According to the National Institutes of Health, with endometriosis you may also experience back pain, abdominal cramping, and pain when urinating or having a bowel movement. These symptoms can occur just during the menstrual cycle or they can be constant.
Infertility
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists warns that, if scar tissue development is severe, you may have difficulty getting pregnant. In some cases, infertility is the first warning sign of endometriosis. One-third of women who have trouble getting pregnant are eventually diagnosed with endometriosis.
General Symptoms
Having endometriosis can also mean you experience fatigue and menstrual bleeding more than once per month. Frequent yeast infections, allergies and sensitivity to chemicals can be other signs that you have this condition. The severity of endometriosis symptoms, however, is not always indicative of the severity of the disease. You can have a severe case of endometriosis, yet only have mild symptoms.
