What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis (say "en-doh-mee-tree-OH-sus") occurs when cells that are like the cells that line the inside of your uterus grow outside of your uterus. These cells form clumps of tissue called implants. They usually grow on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the outer wall of the uterus, the intestines, or other organs in the belly. In rare cases, they spread to areas beyond the belly.

Endometriosis usually isn't dangerous. But it can cause pain and other problems.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Sometimes endometriosis does not cause symptoms. But when symptoms are present, they can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include:

  • Pain. You may have:
    • Pelvic pain.
    • Severe menstrual cramps.
    • Low backache.
    • Pain during sexual intercourse.
    • Rectal pain.
    • Pain during bowel movements.
  • Trouble getting pregnant (infertility). This may be the only sign that you have endometriosis.
  • Abnormal bleeding. This may include:
    • Heavy periods or bleeding between periods.
    • Vaginal bleeding after sex.
    • Blood in the urine or stool.

Symptoms are often most severe just before and during your menstrual period. They may get better as your period is ending. But sometimes pain occurs all the time.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

To find out if you have endometriosis, your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, periods, past health, and family history. (It sometimes runs in families.) You may also have a pelvic exam. And you may have imaging tests, such as a pelvic ultrasound or MRI, to look at the organs in your belly.

Your exam, symptoms, and risk factors may strongly suggest that you have endometriosis. But the only way to be sure that you have it is to have surgery. Laparoscopy is often the surgery used. During this surgery, the doctor puts a thin, lighted tube through a small cut in your belly. This lets the doctor see what's inside your belly.

How is endometriosis treated?

Treatment depends on how much pain you have and whether you want to get pregnant. Treatments include:

  • Over-the-counter pain medicines like ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) or naproxen (such as Aleve). These can reduce bleeding and pain.
  • Hormone therapy. This can help reduce pain and menstrual bleeding. It can include hormonal birth control and other medicines.
  • Laparoscopy to remove growths and scar tissue. This may reduce pain, and it may help you get pregnant.

A hysterectomy and oophorectomy (removal of the uterus and ovaries) are sometimes used as a last resort for severe pain.

If you're close to menopause, you may consider treatment with medicines rather than surgery. Endometriosis usually stops causing problems when you stop having periods.

How can you care for yourself when you have endometriosis?

  • Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
  • Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
    • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
    • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • Apply heat, such as a hot water bottle or a heating pad set on low, to your lower belly. Or take a warm bath. Heat may relieve pain.
  • Lie down and put a pillow under your knees to raise your legs. This will relieve pressure on your back.

Endometriosis: When to call

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have severe vaginal bleeding.
  • You have new or worse pain in your belly or pelvis.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You have unusual vaginal bleeding.
  • You do not get better as expected.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.

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