Endometriosis, symptoms and why it causes pain and health problems
Endometriosis, sometimes called "endo," is a common health problem in women. It gets its name from the word endometrium , the tissue that normally lines the uterus or womb. Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of your uterus and on other areas in your body where it doesn't belong. Most often, endometriosis is found on the: Ovaries Fallopian tubes Tissues that hold the uterus in place Outer surface of the uterus Other sites for growths can include the vagina, cervix, vulva, bowel, bladder, or rectum. Rarely, endometriosis appears in other parts of the body, such as the lungs, brain, and skin. Symptoms of endometriosis can include: Pain. This is the most common symptom. Women with endometriosis may have many different kinds of pain. These include: Very painful menstrual cramps. The pain may get worse over time. Chronic (long-term) pain in the lower back and pelvis Pain during or after sex. This is usually described as a &q