Endometriosis
Overview
Endometriosis is a common chronic disorder in women in which tissue similar to the lining of your uterus (the endometrium) spreads outside the uterine cavity.
The endometrial-like tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with every menstrual cycle, and over time, the broken-down tissue has nowhere to go and becomes trapped in the pelvic area. When endometriosis involves the ovaries, cysts called endometriomas may form, surrounding tissue can become irritated, and eventually, scarring can develop, causing pelvic tissues and organs to stick together.
Endometriosis can affect women of any age, including teenagers, and an estimated 10% of women of childbearing age suffer from the condition. While endometriosis most commonly involves the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining the pelvis, in rare cases, endometrial-like tissue may appear outside pelvic organs.
The condition can cause pain — sometimes severe — especially during menstrual periods, in addition to fertility problems. Fortunately, effective treatments are available.

Causes
While there is no known definitive cause for endometriosis, there are several likely contributing factors:
Hormones
Research shows that women with endometriosis have higher estrogen levels, which can affect the endometrial tissue outside the uterus and lead to inflammation and pain.
Retrograde menstruation
The flow of blood containing endometrial cells into the pelvic cavity rather than escaping through the fallopian tubes. These endometrial cells stick to the pelvic walls and surfaces of pelvic organs, where they grow and bleed over the course of each menstrual cycle.
Endometrial cell transport
Endometrial cells transported by blood vessels or tissue fluid (lymphatic system).
Surgical scar implantation
After surgery, such as a hysterectomy or C-section, endometrial cells may adhere to a surgical incision.
Immune system disorder
An immune system condition may prevent the body from recognizing and destroying endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus.

Treatments
Endometriosis has no cure, but its symptoms can be managed. Medical and surgical options are available to help reduce your symptoms and address any potential complications. Treatment options include:

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