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Endometriosis

Endometriosis is the growth of endometrial tissue-which normally lines the uterus-in other parts of the body. Endometriosis typically grows in the abdominal cavity and most often attaches to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer surface of the uterus, bowels, or other abdominal organs.

Endometriosis growths, called implants or lesions, often bleed during menstruation, causing pain. They may also develop scar tissue (adhesions) that can interfere with an organ's normal function. Scar tissue can also cause pain and difficulty becoming pregnant (infertility).

Endometriosis can be treated with medicines or with surgery to remove implants and scar tissue.

Author Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Author Ralph Poore
Author Monica Rhodes
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated August 1, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 01, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.