Endometriosis refers to a condition where tissue that looks and acts like the lining of the uterus (endometrial tissue) grows outside of the uterus. These tissue deposits can be called growths, tumors, implants, lesions, cysts or nodules.
Most endometriosis is found: |
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On or under the ovaries |
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Behind the uterus |
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On the ligaments that hold the uterus in place |
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On the bowels or bladder |
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Pain is one of the most common symptoms of endometriosis. Usually the pain is in the abdomen, lower back, and pelvis. The amount of pain a woman feels does not depend on how much endometriosis she has. Some women have no pain, even though their disease affects large areas. Other women with endometriosis have severe pain even though they have only a few small growths.
Symptoms of endometriosis include: |
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Very painful menstrual cramps |
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Pain with periods that gets worse over time |
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Chronic pain in the lower back and pelvis |
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Pain during or after sex |
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Intestinal pain |
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Painful bowel movements or painful urination during menstrual periods |
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Heavy and/or long menstrual periods |
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Spotting or bleeding between periods |
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Infertility |
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Fatigue |
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Women with endometriosis may also have gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhoea, constipation, or bloating, especially during their periods.
The Fertility Support Company runs an extremely successful three month programme to treat Endometriosis. Most of our patients report decreased pain and discomfort throughout their menstrual cycle and a second laparoscopy, performed after the completion of our programme, will often show an improvement in the condition. |
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