Endometriosis Overview

Endometriosis is non-malignant and occurs when endometrial cells, normally found only on the inside of the uterus (endometrium), become embedded in locations outside the uterus. Endometriosis occurs in 10 to 15 percent of women between the ages of 25 and 44. Over 5.5 million women in the United States and Canada are affected by endometriosis. An estimated 25 to 50 percent of women suffering from... Read more >

Symptoms

Up to forty percent of patients with endometriosis have no symptoms. Even women with severe endometriosis may be asymptomatic. Conversely, some patients with mild endometriosis may present with debilitating symptoms, particularly pelvic pain. Causes of Pelvic Pain Pelvic pain is by far the most common symptom, with around eighty percent of patients with endometriosis symptomsexperiencing varying degrees of... Read more >

Diagnosis

Although endometriosis is generally diagnosed between the ages of 25 and 35, the condition most likely begins much earlier, with the onset of regular menstruation. Initial Diagnosis If endometriosis is suspected, the patient may be asked to keep a diary of their symptoms, particularly pelvic pain in relation to menstrual cycle.   Patients will be asked to describe their symptoms, sites of pain, and if... Read more >

Treatment

The course of endometriosis treatment is determined largely by the patients wishes regarding a future pregnancy. If a patient wants to maintain her pregnancy options, it is crucial that she communicate these wishes to her physician, as many types of endometriosis treatment will render a woman permanently infertile. A woman's physician will be able to discuss endometriosis treatment options that will not prevent... Read more >

Genetic Testing

Endometriosis is a condition in which pieces of the uterine lining grow outside the uterus. They stick to other pelvic structures, including the ovaries, bowel, fallopian tubes and bladder. Endometriosis is not a cancer, but it can lead to infertility in some cases.   Roughly 10 to 15 percent of women have endometriosis. It can affect adolescents as well as adults.   The main symptoms of... Read more >

Endometriosis Resources

Beers, M. H. & Berkow, R. (ed). (n.d.). Endometriosis [electronic version]. The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, 17th Edition. Merck Research Laboratories, NJ, 1999.Retrieved August 26, 2003, fromwww.merck.com/pubs/mmanual/ section18/chapter239/239a.htm.Farley, D. (1997, September). On the teen scene: Endometriosis: Painful, but treatable. FDA Consumer [Publication No. (FDA) 93-1205]. Retrieved August... Read more >