Too much pain is not normal.
Each month you don’t get pregnant, the blood and tissue that builds up along the uterus to prepare for a possible baby gets shed and leaves the body as your period.
Endometriosis is when the same kind of tissue is found outside of the uterus in other parts of the body, causing a lot of pain and may even make it hard to have children.
What causes endometriosis?
At this time, we don’t know exactly what causes it.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Not everyone with endometriosis will have symptoms. The only sure way to know you have it is to see your doctor for a special test.
- A lot of pain in the lower belly before and during your period (most common) that makes it hard for you to get up and do everyday things or go to out to places like school or work
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pain after sex
- Pain when you use the toilet to urinate or during bowel movements
How is endometriosis treated?
Depending on the case, it may be treated with medication and surgery.
Is there a cure?
Getting treatment is a great help and makes it possible for many women to go on living their lives comfortably. However, there is no complete cure. Even with surgery, endometriosis can come back.
Guides: FAQ – Endometriosis, Information about Endometriosis (in many languages) and Endometriosis – A Guide for Patients
Support groups: Endometriosis Association and more International organizations
Keep in mind that it is very important to see your doctor regularly for checkups in order to help prevent serious health problems.
Talk to your doctor or health care provider for more information.
If you don’t have a doctor, find a health center near you.
Call (414) – 355 – 2200 or send an email to reach the Endometriosis Association for more information.
Source:
– Endometriosis. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists web site. bit.ly/1SsOe9i. Accessed March 30, 2016.