Endometriosis Overview
Endometriosis is a disease in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside of the uterus, somewhere else in the body. Endometriosis growths are benign (not cancerous), however endometriosis is a relentless disease that impacts the quality of life for women. Diagnostic delays are common and may lead to a decline in reproductive potential, fertility and quality of life.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Pain. Women with endometriosis may have many different kinds of pain which include very painful menstrual cramps, chronic pain in the lower back and pelvis, pain during or after sex, intestinal pain and painful bowel movements or pain when urinating during menstrual periods.
Bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods.
Infertility, or not being able to get pregnant.
Digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.
What can you do to reduce the risk of endometriosis?
Lowering the levels of the hormone estrogen in your body may help. To lower estrogen levels in your body, you can:
- Talk to your doctor about hormonal birth control methods with lower doses of estrogen.
- Exercise regularly (more than 4 hours a week); regular exercise and a lower amount of body fat help decrease the amount of estrogen circulating through the body.
- Avoid more than one drink of alcohol per day. Alcohol raises estrogen levels.
- Avoid drinking more than one caffeinated drink a day, especially sodas and green tea, which can raise estrogen levels.
Can I get pregnant with endometriosis?
Yes. Many women with endometriosis get pregnant, but you may find it harder to get pregnant. Researchers think endometriosis may affect as many as one in every two women with infertility.
