Endometriosis is a common painful condition that affects women. The tissue that lines the inner cavity of the woman’s uterus (womb) is called endometrium. Endometriosis occurs when this tissue grows outside the uterus on other areas inside the body (i.e.: ovaries, outer wall of the uterus, fallopian tubes) where it should not grow.
Doctors do not know why the tissue grows outside of the uterus. Nonetheless, Endometriosis can cause severe pain to the pelvic area and back. Additional symptoms of Endometriosis include: significant cramping, painful urination or bowel movements, pain during sexual intercourse, and abnormal or excessive bleeding during periods.
The most common treatments for Endometriosis are: 1) prescription and non-prescription medications 2) hormone therapy and 3) surgical procedures such as laparoscopy and laparotomy. Further, currently there is no cure for Endometriosis.
Did you know?
- Many doctors believe that Endometriosis is hereditary
- Endometriosis is more common in infertile women than it is in fertile women
- Endometriosis can cause difficulty in becoming pregnant
- Using hormone therapy to treat Endometriosis can cause weight gain, acne, depression, and body hair growth
- Symptoms associated with Endometriosis typically improve after menopause
At IC Research, we believe participation in clinical research studies is one of the best ways for doctors to identify new treatments for Endometriosis and for this reason we are grateful to all of those who have participated in our research studies!