The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. This tissue sheds once a month during a woman's menstrual period. Endometriosis is a disorder in which the endometrium cells appear outside of the uterus, according to the Merck Manuals. The tissues shed and bleed during the monthly period just like the uterine lining. This can be painful and can cause several bothersome symptoms. Bowel symptoms often go undiagnosed as being attributed to endometriosis. Instead, a woman may be diagnosed as having irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other such ailments.
Growth Development
The endometrial tissues can build up just about anywhere in the body, including the lungs, pelvic area and intestines. Merck Manuals suggest it is less common for the growths to develop in the large intestines and abdomen. The growths can change the digestive tract by impeding the passing of digested food and stool. A number of side effects can develop as a result of these blockages.
Pain
Pain is one of the most common symptoms of endometriosis. Pain in the lower abdomen is the result of growth developments and scar tissue. The pain may be intensified during the menstrual cycle when the cells begin to shed. Abdominal cramping and intestinal pain are associated with endometrial bowel growths, according to the Women's Health website. It may be painful to have a bowel movement.
Bowel Habits
Endometriosis can lead to diarrhea or constipation or both. These symptoms can occur more frequently during the menstrual period, but they can be more persistent. In rare cases, the shedding of the endometrial tissue can cause a complete blockage of the intestine when the surrounding tissues grow together and form scar tissue. This occurs over time as the tissues consistently shed blood. Women's Health suggests that bloating can be caused by endometriosis, and may be more frequent during a woman's period. Some abdominal symptoms can occur as well, including nausea. A woman may receive a diagnosis of IBS or some other bowel problem when she is seen for these symptoms. An invasive procedure, called laparoscopy, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis of endometriosis. This procedure entails making a small incision in the abdomen that allows a doctor to see the organs.
