ENDOMETRIOSIS By: Tanel Baehr

WHAT IS IT? o An often painful disorder in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of the uterus. o Endometriosis usually involves the ovaries, bowel, bladder or the lining of the pelvis. The tissue rarely spreads past the pelvic region. o Since the tissue is growing on the wrong part of the uterus, it has no way to exit the body. o The trapped tissue causes cysts and scar tissue.

SYMPTOMS o Painful menstrual cycles including pelvic pain and menstrual cramps o Pain during intercourse o Infertility o Fatigue o Bloating or nausea especially during menstrual cycle o Pain with bowel movements

RISK FACTORS o Family History o Never giving birth o History of pelvic infection o Any medical condition preventing the menstrual cycle to flow from the body o Extremely long or short menstrual cycles

DETECTION o Pelvic Exam o Ultrasound o Laparoscopy

TREATMENT o Pain medication o Hormone therapy o Surgery to remove endometrial tissue o Hysterectomy

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