Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which fragments of the endometrium, the tissue that normally lines the womb, can migrate to other parts of the pelvic area and even further afield. For a reason that doctors don’t fully understand, this tissue becomes implanted and starts growing on other organs in some women. And once implanted, the endometrial tissue continues to respond to the monthly menstrual cycle, causing internal bleeding that has no outlet as well as pain inflammation and the formation of scar tissue.

Recognising the symptoms
Many women with endometriosis have no symptoms at all. It is commonly noted for example at the time of a sterilization operation, when the deposits are seen, but have produced no problems. When symptoms do occur, they vary considerably in type and severity. You should consider the possibility of endometriosis if you have unusually heavy, painful periods or pain during or after sex, or when having a bowel movement or passing urine. These symptoms can be caused by a whole range of other clinical problems, however, which explains why it frequently takes several years before women with endometriosis get a proper diagnosis.

The only way to diagnose endometriosis is by a laparoscopy, a minor operation carried out by a hospital gynaecologist. A miniature telescope is inserted into the pelvis through a small cut near the navel, enabling the surgeon to see any endometrial implant. Your doctor may also suggest that you are tested for the condition if you are having fertility problems, as it accounts for about 6 per cent of cases of infertility.

Next page: Treating the condition