Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where cells of the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus) appear outside the uterus. They can appear on the vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, lungs, etc.

Such tissue is hormonally dependent, so during menstruation it has more or less pronounced symptoms. Swelling, bleeding from such tissue in a limited space leads to the formation of endometrial cysts, which, if ruptured, lead to internal bleeding, wasting, irritation of adjacent abdominal organs, scars and the formation of new masses, tumors, but also the formation of new foci. If they appear on the ovary, they most often lead to the creation of so-called chocolate cysts. If they appear on the fallopian tubes, permanent sterility is possible.

The symptoms are not characteristic because they can be related to other diseases. It is mostly abdominal pain, severe menstrual pains, nausea, vomiting, long menstrual periods, painful intercourse, etc.

Diagnosing is very difficult. Ultrasound can only be used to suspect, but only through surgery, preferably laparoscopy, can a reliable diagnosis be made.

Treatment is mainly performed with hormonal therapies or surgical treatment (most often laparoscopy).