Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common medical condition where the tissue lining the uterus (the endometrium, from endo, "inside", and metrium, "mother") is found outside of the uterus, typically affecting other organs in the pelvis. The condition can lead to serious health problems, primarily pain and infertility. Endometriosis primarily develops in women of the reproductive age.

Cause of pain

How endometriosis causes pain is the topic of much research. Because many women with endometriosis feel pain during or related to their periods, and may spill further menstrual flow into the pelvis with each menstruation, some researchers are trying to reduce menstrual events in patients with endometriosis.

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Endometriosic tissue reacts to hormonal stimulation and may "bleed" at time of menstruation. It accumulates locally, causes swelling, and triggers inflammatory responses with activation of cytokines. It is thought that this process may lead to pain perception.

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