Causes

The cause of endometriosis is unknown. However, researchers do know of risk factors that make a woman more prone to having the disease. Women who have a mother, sister, or daughter who has endometriosis are 10 times more likely to have endometriosis than women without an affected relative. In rare cases, a medical problem can prevent the normal passage of menstrual flow and cause the disease. Some studies also show that previous infections in the pelvis can damage the cells that line the pelvic area, which can lead to endometriosis.

Symptoms

Although endometriosis does not always have symptoms, the following are some common warning signs that the disease is present:

• Painful periods: Pelvic pain and cramping begins before a period and lasts several days after. Endometriosis may also involve pain in the lower abdomen and lower back.
• Heavy periods or bleeding between periods
• Pain during ovulation
• Sharp pain deep in the pelvis during intercourse
• Pain during bowel movements or urination

Endometriosis can cause fertility problems if it is not treated. In fact, for some women, endometriosis is not diagnosed until they seek treatment for infertility. Because the cause of endometriosis is unknown, it is difficult to prevent the disease. However, evidence does suggest that women who have had children are less likely to develop the disorder.

Treatment

• Pain medications. Over-the-counter pain relievers can relieve the menstrual pain that endometriosis causes. If you find that you are taking more than the regular dosage, you may need to try other treatment approaches.
• Hormone therapy. The rise and fall of hormones during a woman’s menstrual cycle cause the endometrial tissue to thicken, break down, and bleed. Taking hormones can help shrink the tissue or prevent it from building up, which can help lessen the pain.
• Surgery. If you have endometriosis and are trying to become pregnant, your doctor can remove the misplaced tissue through surgery.
• Hysterectomy. In severe cases, the best treatment for endometriosis may be a hysterectomy. During this surgical procedure, some or all of a woman’s reproductive organs are removed. This operation is a last resort, particularly for women in their childbearing years. A woman who has had a hysterectomy cannot get pregnant.

Self-Care

Endometriosis can be a frustrating disorder if it remains untreated. The pain that often accompanies it can cause missed school or work days. As it continues, the discomfort can cause depression, irritability, anxiety, and anger. If you are trying to have children and cannot, endometriosis can cause feelings of helplessness.

If you are dealing with the symptoms of endometriosis, consider joining a support group for women with the condition. It may help you to deal with many of the emotions you are experiencing—and help you to feel less alone.