Talk:What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue that normally grows inside the uterus (endometrium) grows outside it.[1][2]

Most often this is on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue around the uterus and ovaries; however, in rare cases it may also occur in other parts of the body.[3]

The main symptoms are pelvic pain and infertility. Nearly half of those affected have chronic pelvic pain, while in 70% pain occurs during menstruation.

Pain during sex is also common. Infertility occurs in up to half of women affected.[4]

Less common symptoms include urinary or bowel symptoms.

About 25% of women have no symptoms.[4] Endometriosis can have both social and psychological effects.[5]

The cause is not entirely clear.[4]

Risk factors include having a family history of the condition.

The areas of endometriosis bleed each month, resulting in inflammation and scarring.[3][4] The growths due to endometriosis are not cancer.

Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms in combination with medical imaging.

Biopsy is the most sure method of diagnosis.[3]

Other causes of similar symptoms include pelvic inflammatory disease, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis, and fibromyalgia.[4]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endometriosis

Endometriosis facts

 * One in 10 women are estimated to be affected.
 * It causes a growth of tissue, similar to the normal lining found in the uterus, to grow throughout the body.
 * It can cause extreme pelvic pain and pain through the torso and in some cases can cause infertility.
 * It can currently only be diagnosed with a laparoscopy and biopsy.
 * Medication, surgery and allied treatments are acknowledged as ways to control the disease.
 * There is no cure.

''Source: Endometriosis Australia