ENDOMETRIOSIS By: Tanel Baehr

WHAT IS IT?

oAn often painful disorder in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of the uterus.

oEndometriosis usually involves the ovaries, bowel, bladder or the lining of the pelvis. The tissue rarely spreads past the pelvic region.

oSince the tissue is growing on the wrong part of the uterus, it has no way to exit the body.

oThe trapped tissue causes cysts and scar tissue.

SYMPTOMS

oPainful menstrual cycles including pelvic pain and menstrual cramps

oPain during intercourse

oInfertility

oFatigue

oBloating or nausea especially during menstrual cycle

oPain with bowel movements

RISK FACTORS

oFamily History

oNever giving birth

oHistory of pelvic infection

oAny medical condition preventing the menstrual cycle to flow from the body

oExtremely long or short menstrual cycles

DETECTION

oPelvic Exam

oUltrasound

oLaparoscopy

TREATMENT

oPain medication

oHormone therapy

oSurgery to remove endometrial tissue

oHysterectomy

VIDEO

ohttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84W6WLst9EQ