The pain is not limited to the area around your uterus. You feel the throbbing pain during bowel movements. Your legs hurt, and sexual intercourse becomes a painful experience. In many cases, all these will be accompanied by rectal pain and sciatic pain. The pain is so unbearable that some women fall unconscious. You must visit a gynecologist when you go through painful periods and excessive bleeding. These are all signs of endometriosis.  

Endometriosis is a disorder where tissue that resembles the inner linings of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. The inner linings of the uterus are called endometrial tissue. In this condition, the tissues that grow outside the uterus act like endometrial tissue as it thickens and bleeds during each menstrual cycle. But this tissue has no way to leave your body, thereby leaving inflammations, scars, and lesions. These tissues commonly grow around your ovaries or fallopian tubes. 

However, there are women who do not experience symptoms even when they have endometriosis. 

Symptoms

• Painful periods worse than usual 
• Pain during sexual intercourse 
• Infertility 
• Painful bowel movements and urination 
• Heavy bleeding
• Back pain and fatigue during periods 

Causes/Reasons

It isn’t clear what exactly causes endometriosis. However, there are several factors that are linked with this condition. Retrograde menstruation is a possible cause for this condition. In retrograde menstruation, menstrual blood carrying endometrial cells flows back through your fallopian tube and pelvic cavity and eventually sticks onto these organs. Genetics and immune system disorders may also lead you to this condition

Treatment

Endometriosis can be diagnosed through techniques such as a pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI, and laparoscopy. Treatment includes medications to control pain, hormone therapy, and surgery. In severe cases, hysterectomy may be performed, but you won’t be able to conceive thereafter.  

Lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management can help you manage this condition. Make sure you avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks. 

Consult your doctor for a detailed medical examination and treatment.