🤔What Is Endometriosis, Really?

Endometriosis is a chronic, oestrogen-dependent inflammatory disease in which tissue similar but not identical to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterine cavity.

It affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide, making it one of the most common gynaecological conditions.

🧐 Despite its name, these lesions are not the same as the normal endometrium. 

They behave differently, developing their own blood supply and interacting with the immune and nervous systems, leading to persistent inflammation within the pelvis.

😳Endometriosis may appear as:

• Small superficial lesions on the pelvic lining.

• Ovarian cysts filled with altered blood, known as endometriomas ("chocolate cysts")

• Deep infiltrating lesions extending beneath the surface of pelvic tissues.

• Fibrosis and adhesions that may cause pelvic organs to stick together.

😥It is most commonly found on the:

• Ovaries

• Fallopian tubes

• Pelvic peritoneum

• Uterosacral ligaments

• Pouch of Douglas

In more advanced cases, it may also involve the bowel, bladder, ureters, diaphragm, or, rarely, distant organs.

Understanding what endometriosis really is is the first step toward earlier diagnosis and better care.

Dr Rabab Cares

#DrRababCares 

#EndometriosisExplained #EndometriosisAwareness #PelvicPain #WomensHealth #Gynaecology