Endometriosis is an often painful disorder in which tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus - the endometrium - grows outside your uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves your ovaries, bowel or the tissue lining your pelvis. Rarely, endometrial tissue may spread beyond your pelvic region. In endometriosis, displaced endometrial tissue continues to act as it normally would - it thickens, breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. Because this displaced tissue has no way to exit your body, it becomes trapped. When endometriosis involves the ovaries, cysts may form. Fertility problems also may develop. Endometriosis is most common in women in their 30s and 40s, but it can affect any female who menstruates.
Factors that May Increase the Risk of Endometriosis
Studies show that women are at higher risk for endometriosis if their:
- Mother, sister, or daughter had endometriosis (raises the risk about sixfold)
- Periods started at an early age (before age 11)
- Monthly cycles are short (less than 27 days)
- Menstrual cycles are heavy and last more than 7 days
Factors that May Lower the Risk of Endometriosis
Studies also show that some factors may lower the risk for endometriosis, including:
- Pregnancy
- Starting menstruation late in adolescence
- Regular exercise of more than 4 hours a week
- Low amount of body fat
Common signs and symptoms of endometriosis may include:
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea). Pelvic pain and cramping, may include lower back & abdominal pain.
- Pain with intercourse. Pain during or after sex is common with endometriosis.
- Pain with bowel movements or urination during your period.
- Excessive bleeding. You may experience heavy periods or bleeding between periods.
- Infertility. Endometriosis is first diagnosed in some women who are seeking treatment for infertility.
- Other symptoms. You may also experience fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.
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