What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis happens when the tissue that normally grows inside your uterus grows outside of it instead. This misplaced tissue often attaches itself to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel or bladder. It can spread to other internal organs as well.

Just like the lining of the uterus thickens and bleeds each month during menstruation, so does the tissue that forms outside the uterus. But because the bleeding happens in areas where it can't easily leave the body, it causes inflammation and swelling.

Women with severe endometriosis may have heavy and painful menstrual cycles, and sometimes may also have problems getting pregnant. The fallopian tubes can become blocked by endometrial tissue. See a doctor to get a diagnosis and to learn about treatments that can help.