Synonyms in a broader sense
Adenomyosis uteri, internal and external endometriosis
Symptoms
The development of endometriosis symptoms is basically based on one cause. Since the affected areas are similar in structure and function to the lining of the uterus or consist of it, they are subject to the monthly cycle, just like the uterus. This means that they bleed on average every 28 days (menstrual period), depending on the hormones.
However, since, in contrast to the uterus, there is usually no drainage of the blood, there is a congestion of the blood and corresponding symptoms. Furthermore, the endometriosis zones secrete pain transmitters (prostaglandins), which can also lead to massive cramps. In addition to almost painless cases, which therefore remain undetected for a long time, many women are literally incapacitated during menstruation due to their severe symptoms. The colorful symptoms of endometriosis can be summarized as follows:
- Massive complaints during the period (menstrual pain) with cramps in the lower abdomen, circulation problems and nausea
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Infertility, which is usually caused by the adhesion of the fallopian tube to the blood and the lining of the uterus
- Bleeding abnormalities in the form of spotting before the start of the period and increase in bleeding intensity during the period
- Pain when going to the toilet, i.e. both urination and defecation, is possible, in rare cases even with excretion of blood in urine and stool (see: intestinal bleeding)