Gynecology

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition that occurs when the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) starts growing outside the uterus. These growths, called endometrial patches, lesions, nodules, or implants, can be found on various pelvic and abdominal organs, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, tissues holding the uterus (ligaments), pelvic cavity, bladder, and intestines. Rarely, they can even be found in other distant organs.

During the menstrual cycle, the endometrial tissue within the uterus thickens and sheds as part of the natural menstrual process. Similarly, the endometrial patches outside the uterus also respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. However, unlike the tissue in the uterus that leaves the body through menstruation, the displaced endometrial tissue has no way to exit the body, leading to inflammation, irritation, and the formation of scar tissue.