|
|
|
|
Endometriosis |
In endometriosis, endometrial tissue is found in places in the body
other than the lining of the uterus, including the ovaries, fallopian
tubes, outer surface of the uterus, bowel, other pelvic structures
or organs, and peritoneum. Rarely, it may also attach to places
far from the pelvis. There are several theories about how this occurs:
- There may be a backward flow of blood through a fallopian tube.
- The endometrial cells may leave the pelvis through the blood or
lymph vessels.
- Endometriosis may appear spontaneously.
Endometrial tissues outside the uterus respond to hormones like
the endometrium does. During the menstrual cycle, hormones signal
the lining of the uterus to grow and thicken to prepare for a pregnancy.
If there is no pregnancy, hormone levels decrease and cause the
endometrium to break down and bleed. This may be painful. Scar tissue
may grow around the area. Scar tissues that bind organs together
are called adhesions. In some cases, blood can be trapped in the
ovary and build up into a benign tumor. This is called an endometrioma.
Endometriosis is most common in women in their 30’s and 40’s.
After menopause, endometriosis usually is no longer active. To diagnose
endometriosis, your doctor will usually look at your complete medical
and menstrual background. He or she will perform a pelvic exam to
check for anything abnormal. The diagnosis can be confirmed with
a procedure called laparoscopy. This is done under general anesthesia.
Treatment may consist of medical or surgical intervention. Your
doctor will help you determine what treatment is best for you.
|
|
|
|
|
|
