This is a condition in which cells of the endometrium (the womb lining) appear in other areas of the body. This is usually in the abdominal area, including the pelvis, ovaries and Fallopian tubes.

During the menstrual cycle, hormones cause the ovaries to release an egg, and the womb lining to thicken. If the egg isn’t fertilised, the womb lining breaks down and bleeds, and leaves the body as a period. Endometriosis cells elsewhere in the body also break down and bleed, and this causes inflammation, pain and adhesions (scar tissue).

According to the charity Endometriosis UK, the condition affects around two million women in the UK.

Not all women experience symptoms, but common symptoms can include:

• Painful, heavy or irregular periods
• Pain during or after sex
• Infertility
• Problems opening the bowels

These symptoms can signify a range of other conditions. A laparoscopy (a surgical procedure allowing the surgeon to look into the abdomen with a small camera) is the only way to make a definite diagnosis.

Different treatment options include:

• Painkillers
• Hormone treatments, such as progestogen or testosterone
• Hormonal contraceptive methods, such as the combined contraceptive pill, patch, or IUS
• Drugs that can cause a temporary menopause by stopping the body producing oestrogen. These are usually administered by injection

In severe cases, surgery can be carried out to remove the endometriosis or the ovaries and womb.

Some, but not all, women with endometriosis have difficulty getting pregnant.

 

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