It grows, and during a menstrual period, it bleeds.
Even though this tissue (called the endometrium) is outside the womb, it still responds to messages from the ovaries. But it can grow in almost any part of the body. What is endometriosis?Įndometriosis occurs when the tissue that usually lines the uterus (womb) grows outside of it and in other parts of the abdomen and pelvis, such as the bowel and bladder. Hysterectomy – removing reproductive organs such as the uterus and fallopian tubes – is usually a last resort for women living with ‘endo’, after less invasive surgical and medical treatments have been tried, says Dr Janine Manwaring, a gynaecologist and spokesperson for Jean Hailes for Women’s Health. (Treatment is available to reduce the severity of the symptoms.) Endometriosis is more common than you might think, affecting 1 in 10 women – and often leads to pain and infertility.Īnd despite the buzz surrounding actor/director Lena Dunham’s recent hysterectomy for endometriosis at age 31, the condition can’t be cured or prevented.
