When the endometrium or the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows outside (endometrial implant), it gives rises to extremely painful condition known as endometriosis. This condition is limited to the pelvic region i.e. ovaries, bowel or tissues lining the pelvis. In very rare cases it exceeds beyond the pelvic region.

Displaced endometrial tissue continues to function as it will usually do in endometriosis— it thickens, breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. As this displaced tissue has no way to leave the body, it gets caught. When the ovaries are involved in endometriosis, cysts can form, called endometriomas. Surrounding tissue may get irritated and ultimately grow scar tissue and adhesions — abnormal tissue that bonds organs together. Endometriosis, particularly during your menstrual, can cause pain — sometimes severe. Problems with fertility, too, can emerge.

Signs and Symptoms

Chronic pain in the stomach and the inability to conceive are the main symptoms of endometriosis. In certain cases, the disorder has been associated with a higher risk of infertility as it can affect the potency of the egg, interrupt the menstrual cycle or could also increase levels of inflammation. The most prominent symptom of endometriosis is discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis, sometimes during or right before the period. Some may even experience discomfort during ovulation, when urinating, before or after sexual activity, in the lower back area, or the legs. Some of the symptoms could also include:

Constipation or diarrhea (during menstruation)

Irregular or heavy bleeding

Elevated blood pressure

Urgent or frequent urination

Severe or cyclic pain in the pelvic region

Blood in stool or urine

Menstrual cramps

Nausea or vomiting

Effects on fertility

Nearly 30-40 per cent of the women who suffer from endometriosis also suffer from infertility. Women with endometriosis find it difficult to conceive. Endometriosis can block the tube, preventing unification of the egg and sperm. But the disorder also tends to affect reproduction in less-direct forms, such as sperm damage or egg damage.

Still, many women with mild to severe endometriosis do have the potential to conceive and have a successful delivery. Doctors also warn endometriosis patients not to postpone having babies, as the disease may get worse with time.