Gynecology

Endometriosis

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Signs and Symptoms

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue from the membrane normally lining the uterus — the endometrium — grows outside the uterus, typically on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines or other areas in the pelvis. This tissue acts just like the endometrium in accumulating blood in the monthly menses period, but it has no place to shed the blood at the end of the cycle. The accumulation of tissue and blood can cause inflammation and scarring, which can lead to other conditions, particularly pelvic pain and infertility. Between 25 and 50 percent of infertile women are estimated to have endometriosis. Blood trapped in the ovaries also can develop into benign cysts called endometrioma. Endometriosis affects more than one million women in the United States and at this time, the exact cause of condition is unknown.

Symptoms of endometriosis typically worsen over time. The severity of symptoms may vary and some women with the condition may not experience any symptoms at all. Symptoms may stop after menopause or during pregnancy, though will begin in women after they have a baby and begin menstruating again.

Common symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain and cramping before and during periods
• Lower back and stomach pain during periods
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• Excessive bleeding during periods
• Pelvic pain during intercourse
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Infertility

It is important to note that these symptoms can occur with other conditions. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, see your doctor to determine the cause.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 28, 2008