Endometriosis iscondition when jnetwork that formed the inner lining of the uterine wall grows outside the uterus. This tissue, called the endometrium, can grow in the ovaries, intestines, fallopian tubes (oviducts), vagina, or in the rectum (the end part of the intestine that connects to the anus).
Before menstruation, the endometrium thickens as a place for the fertilized egg to attach. If not in a pregnant condition, the endometrium will shed, and then come out of the body as menstrual blood.
In the case of endometriosis, the endometrial tissue outside the uterus also thickens, but cannot be shed and out of the body. These conditions can cause complaints of pain, can even cause infertility or female infertility.
Endometriosis Stage
Endometriosis is divided into four stages, which depend on the location, amount, size, and depth of the endometrial lining. The following are the four stages of endometriosis and their characteristics:
- Minimal endometriosis. Small and shallow endometrial tissue appears in the ovaries. Inflammation can also occur around the pelvic cavity.
- Mild endometriosis. There is small, shallow endometrial tissue in the ovaries and pelvic walls.
- Intermediate endometriosis. There is some quite deep endometrial tissue in the ovaries.
- Severe endometriosis. There is deep endometrial tissue in the ovaries, pelvic wall, fallopian tubes, and intestines.
Causes and Symptoms of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is thought to be related to a disorder of the immune system, or a reversed flow of menstrual blood. This condition is generally characterized by several symptoms, such as:
- Pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis.
- Excessive blood volume during menstruation.
- Pain during bowel movements or urination.
Endometriosis Treatment
The choice of treatment method depends on the severity and whether the patient still wants to have children. Treatment for endometriosis includes:
- Administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Hormone therapy to stop the production of the hormone estrogen.
- Surgical procedures, such as obstetrical laparoscopy, laparotomy, hysterectomy.