All You Need To Know About… Endometriosis

A total of 176 million women and girls suffer from this condition worldwide.

But do we know enough about it? We have the facts on endometriosis...

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is the abnormal growth of cells similar to those that form the inside of the uterus, but in a location outside of the uterus. Endometrial cells are cells that are shed each month during a period. These cells of endometriosis attach themselves to tissue outside the uterus and are called endometriosis implants.

These implants are most commonly found on the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, outer surfaces of the uterus or intestines, and on the surface lining of the pelvic cavity. They can also be found in the vagina, cervix and bladder, although less commonly than other locations in the pelvis.

Who is affected by endometriosis?

Endometriosis can affect women in their reproductive years.While most cases of endometriosis are diagnosed in women aged around 25-35 years, endometriosis has been reported in girls as young as 11 years of age. It is a condition that is rare in postmenopausal women.

What causes it?

There are a few theories but the cause of endometriosis is not known.

What are the symptoms?

Most women who have endometriosis do not have symptoms. Of those who do experience symptoms, the common symptoms are pain (usually in the pelvis) and infertility. Pelvic pain usually occurs during or just before your period and lessens after menstruation.

Some women experience painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) or cramping during intercourse, and or/pain during bowel movements and/or urination. Even pelvic examination by a doctor can be painful. The pain intensity can change from month to month and varies greatly among women.

How is it treated?

Endometriosis can be treated with medications and/or surgery. The goals of endometriosis treatment may include pain relief and/or enhancement of fertility. Medical treatment can include anti-inflammatory drugs, Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs, oral contraceptive pills or progestins.

For help or more information, check out the Endometriosis Association of Ireland website.