Normally, endometrial tissue is found only inside the uterus. The uterus is the reproductive organ where a fetus develops. Hormones cause the tissue to form there, preparing the body for a fertilized egg. If you do not become pregnant, the tissue leaves the body during menstruation.
In endometriosis, endometrial-like tissue is found outside the uterus. For example, it may be found on organs in the abdomen or pelvis. In these places, the tissue still responds to hormones. It swells, breaks down, and bleeds. But it is unable to leave when you menstruate. Surrounding tissue becomes inflamed. There is often scarring.
Check out these related EmpowHER links:
Endometriosis main information page
Endometriosis Guides, Experts, HERWriters and Members
DIAGNOSIS:
News: “MRI May Help Find Deep Endometriosis,” July 7, 2009
News: “New Way Found to Diagnose Endometriosis,” August 20, 2009
HERArticle: “What to Expect During Your Laparoscopy: Part I,” September 20, 2009
HERArticle: “What to Expect During Your Laparoscopy: Part II,” September 20, 2009
TREATMENT:
HERArticle: “Surgery for Endometriosis: Pros and Cons,” March 6, 2009
HERArticle: “The Endometriosis Fix: Contraception?” October 31, 2009
SHARE: “Interesting Article About Lupron—A Drug Used for Endometriosis,” February 20, 2009
RELATED TOPICS:
HERArticle: “Why Unprotected Sex May Worsen Endometriosis,” February 15, 2010
HERArticle: “Does Soy Worsen Endometriosis?” December 16, 2009
HERArticle “The Untold Costs of Endometriosis,” February 15, 2010
HerArticle: “Endometriosis: A Silent Cause of Infertility,” November 24, 2009
ADDITIONAL LINKS:
Endometriosis Awareness 2010, Endometriosis.org
RELATED RESEARCH:
Medical News, “Endometriosis Doubles Risk of Premature Birth,” Feb 2009
Medical News, “Scientists Identify Possible Cause of Endometriosis,” Aug 2008