Endometriosis ExplainedEndometriosis is a condition where cells from the inner layer of the uterus (endometrium) are deposited in areas outside of the uterus. Endometrial cells are the ones that shed when you have your menstrual cycle each month. Endometriosis looks like dark spots and can be found on the outside of the uterus, ovaries fallopian tubes, bladder and intestines. Endometrial cells can also reach the outside of the uterus from previous surgeries. Women who have had cesarean sections could have had the cells deposited in the pelvic cavity during the surgical incisions. Some women with endometriosis do complain of cramping and abdominal pain. The pain won’t usually subside until the condition is dealt with. But, unless it causes problems there is nothing to do for it. Endometriosis is not a malignant condition. Pain and cramping aren’t the only symptoms of endometriosis. Women present with heavy menstrual bleeding, diarrhea, blood in the urine and low back pain also. When accompanied by heavy bleeding and pain, a hysterectomy may need to be performed for recurrent endometriosis. With a hysterectomy, the uterus and sometimes the fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed along with any endometrial spots that still exist. If surgery is not the way you want to go, medication can be used to treat endometriosis. Since endometriosis pain is worse during ovulation and the menstrual cycle, using a continuous cycle of oral contraceptives will stop menstrual periods. The worst part of endometriosis for most women is the pain. Your doctor may prescribe ibuprofen or NSAIDs like Aleve for the pain and discomfort. If the pain is manageable, nothing else has to be done beyond that point. Endometriosis is a benign condition that can cause a lot of pain for women of childbearing age. It can be treated with medication. For women with more intense symptoms, surgical intervention may be required.
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