Endometriosis (in-doh-me-tree-OH-sis) is a disease in which
uterine tissue is found outside the uterus. This tissue can be
found on the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, the bladder, and the
bowel. It generally affects menstruating women of any age. While
the exact connection of endometriosis and fertility isn't known,
this disease can hinder conception. Early detection can help
prevent future infertility, so talk to your doctor if you
experience painful menstrual cramps, an extremely heavy
menstrual flow, diarrhea, painful bowel movements, or painful
sexual intercourse. These can be symptoms of endometriosis, so
talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of
these. Also, tell your doctor if endometriosis is found in any
of your family members, since this disease runs in families.
Sometimes there aren't any symptoms, but your doctor can still
diagnose your problem with a laparoscopy (lah-puh-RAW-skuh-pee).