by Curtis Carper

Created on: April 26, 2008   Last Updated: April 29, 2008

Endometriosis is the growth of tissue much like the lining of the uterus taking place outside the uterus. Lesions can occur throughout the pelvic region, growing on any organ found within the area. Extreme cases can develop almost anywhere in the body.

Usually endometriosis symptoms consist of pain in the pelvic area, often during the menstrual cycle. For many women the pain may continue beyond or have no correlation with the menstrual period. Pain so severe it drastically limits there lives. Endometriosis hip joint pain can be severe enough to make walking very difficult.

A woman's whole internal anatomy can be distorted and fused together into a condition known as a "frozen pelvis" from scar tissue and adhesions developed from endometriosis lesions. As many as 40% of women suffering from endometriosis become infertile.

There is no test available for endometriosis, the only way to positively confirm its presence is a laparoscopy or a biopsy. Surgery is the only definite way to determine if the condition is present.

Is your condition Endometriosis versus Ovarian Cancer. It's slightly more likely that a woman who has endometriosis will develop ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is rare, if you have a family history, or are over 40 it may be a concern, something to be discussed with your Doctor.

Endometriosis treatment usually begins with pain control. Aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, mild narcotics like codeine, even morphine like analgesics can be prescribed.

Hormonal treatment is also used to control the lesions. Taking birth control pills can be effective. Most often during the surgical procedure to identify the endometriosis, removal of the lesions will take place, treating the condition at the same time as a positive diagnosis is obtained.

Alternative therapies can help in pain management. Nutritional Therapies, less mainstream methods such as Homeopathy, Herbs, and Traditional Chinese Medicine can be helpful. Support groups can also help.

Often a hysterectomy is recommended as a definitive cure to the condition, though a reoccurrence is possible.

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