What is a Clinical Trial?
Find out about clinical trials.
Endometriosis
About endometriosis
In this section, you or a loved one can find out more about endometriosis, as well as links to other information. Being informed is an important first step towards becoming an active decision-maker in your care plan.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is an oestrogen-dependent condition in which tissue that normally grows on the inside of the uterus grows outside of it instead, often causing inflammation and significant pain, and sometimes infertility. This tissue growth usually affects the ovaries, bowel or pelvic lining, but it can reach beyond the pelvic region as well.
Normally, endometrial tissue in the uterus thickens, breaks down and is expelled as bleeding during the menstrual cycle. In endometriosis, the tissue continues to thicken and break down as it normally would, but it can’t be expelled. Instead, it irritates nearby tissues, causing scar tissue, cysts and adhesions (places where abnormal tissues grow so that they stick to each other).
For more information, please visit Endometriosis Australia http://www.endometriosisaustralia.org/ (Date last accessed 26 Oct 2016)
Disclaimer
Please note that the information on this website is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for seeking medical advice or treatment from a healthcare professional. Speak to a healthcare provider if you have any questions about your health, medical condition, symptoms or treatment options.
References
The Endometriosis Association
http://www.endometriosisassn.org/endo.html (Date last accessed 26 Oct 2016)
Mayo Clinic
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/basics/definition/con-20013968 (Date last accessed 26 Oct 2016)
