What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is the presence of functional, endometrial tissue outside of the uterus. Although mostly confined to the pelvic region, the pain can radiate making diagnosis difficult.

Diagnosis is usually made by excluding other causes and then performing a laparotomy; a keyhole surgery where a probe is inserted through the lower abdomen to look for endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

In 40% of cases of endometriosis, the ovaries and fallopian tubes are involved.

Other sites of endometriosis include; umbilicus, ileum, rectus muscle, uterine surface, round ligament, appendix, free peritoneal surface, urinary bladder wall or surface, vulva, perineum, posterior surface of uterus and uterosacral ligaments, pelvic colon, cervix, rectovaginal septum, aorta, ileocolic lymphatics and lymphatics from both the urinary bladder and uterus.

Symptoms develop over time with the average age for occurrence is between 25-40 years while undiagnosed endometriosis can persist until menopause.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

A dragging sensation of a dull and constant nature that is often more intense on one side.

Pain starts in the days leading up to the menstrual period and progresses in severity, peaking just before the menstrual flow begins and not lessening in intensity for 1-2 days thereafter.

Factors that make symptoms worse.

Intra-uterine device (IUD), alcohol intake, caffeine intake, strenuous activity during menstruation, sexual intercourse during menstruation and prolonged tampon use.

Scar tissue from previous surgeries may also result in adhesion formation. Familial history.

Endometriosis and Pregnancy

Pregnancy history. Delayed first pregnancy may increase the risk of developing endometriosis. Endometriosis is also a common cause of infertility.

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