by Yancy Caruthers

Created on: April 27, 2008   Last Updated: April 29, 2008

Endometriosis is the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

Typically, the rogue tissue forms on the ligaments within the pelvis, but occasionally will form on the cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or intestines.

It is estimated that as many as one in five women have it to some extent. It can occur at any age after puberty, although it is a rare occurrence in women after menopause. There does not seem to be a relationship to race. There is a genetic component you are ten times more likely to get it if your mother or sister has it.

It is believed to be caused by an excess level of estrogen in the body.

The primary symptom is moderate to severe pain, although some women will not experience any pain. Painful menstruation and pain during intercourse are common. The location and severity of the pain is determined by the location and the extent of the tissue growth. Chronic pelvic or hip pain may be present, if the tissue has deposited on pelvic ligaments or nerves. Painful bowel movements may also occur if the intestines are involved.

Due to the possibility of blockage of the fallopian tubes, infertility is also a common symptom. In fact, up to half of women who are having difficulty conceiving have some degree of endometriosis. Many women only discover the condition during fertility exams.

In rare cases, endometrial tissue can become cancerous. Although endometriosis does not cause ovarian cancer, the same increased estrogen levels increase the risk.

The disease is suspected based on symptomology, but is can only be confirmed by direct observation of the tissues with a laparoscope. Ultrasounds and other imaging, such as computerized tomography ("cat" scans) or MRI, are not reliable, as smaller tissue deposits cannot be seen.

Generally, endometriosis pain is treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, or in some cases short-term narcotics. Since the common theory is hormone-based, treatments that are focused on reducing estrogen levels, like progesterone-based birth control pills, or estrogen-blocking agents, are thought to be effective, although other side effects may result from those therapies.

Homeopathic remedies may consist of agents thought to balance hormone production, such as Dong Qui, or liver cleansing regimens, since excess estrogen is cleared in the liver. The diet may also be examined, as certain foods can compound the condition.

It has been suggested that pregnancy may relieve the symptoms, although there is no guarantee that they will not recur once the body recovers.

In cases of infertility or severe pain, surgery is generally indicated to remove the excess tissue growth. This can often be done laparoscopically, although in the most severe cases removal of the ovaries and/or hysterectomy is needed.

Consult your health care provider to discuss your options if you have any of the symptoms listed above.

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