Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder in which tissue like to the uterine lining, moves through the fallopian tubes and move to the walls of the abdominals and the outer surfaces of organs nearby. Similar to the lining of the uterus, the tissue sheds monthly, in accordance to the menstrual cycle. But rather than exiting the body (as in the uterine lining case, through the vagina), the tissue builds up and remains there. It starts to become inflammatory and it leaves scar tissue. Symptoms of this are: menstrual cramps, gastrointestinal problems, pain during intercourse, continual pelvic pain, fatigue, infertility and painful bowel movements. It affects one in ten women and don't necessarily stop appearing once a woman goes through menopause. This is because even though estrogen helps the growth of endometriosis, and menstruation stops after menopause, ovaries continue to produce tiny amounts of estrogen so endometriosis may continue. The treatment is often surgery, to remove the parts that are not generally supposed to be there. If the case is severe, the doctor may recommend a hysterectomy, in which the uterus and maybe even the ovaries are taken out.Be sure to have annual checkups with the clinician or doctor.
