Home About Us Medical Staff Curtis D. Struyk, M.D. Douglas M. Van Drie, M.D. Judith A. Hiemenga, M.D. Roger W. Edvenson, M.D. Michael L. Bennett, M.D. Elizabeth J. Luce, M.D. Jason B. Bennett, M.D. Kate Haehnel, MS, CUPN, FNP Kathleen Hascher, MSN, FNP Obstetrics Pregnancy FAQs Your First Visit Fetal Well-Being Kick Counts The Non-Stress Test Biophysical Profile Should I Call The Doctor? Active Labor Post Partum Visit Welcome To The World Gynecology Incontinence Pelvic Floor Rehab Overactive Bladder Heavy Periods Pelvic Pain Endometriosis Interstitial Cystitis Vulvodynia Infertility Fibroids Permanent Contraception Abnormal Pap Smear Pap Test HPV Testing Other Menopause Osteoporosis PMS Yeast Infections Procedures Colposcopy Endometrial Biopsy Hysteroscopy LEEP Essure Endometrial Ablation Thermachoice Renessa Novasure Tegress TVTs Surgery GVG Imaging Ultrasound Facts 3D Ultrasound Gynecologic Ultrasound Obstetrical Ultrasound Biophysical / Amniotic Ultrasound Pelvic Ultrasound Nuchal Translucency Amniocentesis Lung Maturity Notification Of Scan Results Memory Photos & Videos AIUM Official Statements What's New Glossary Links Common Problems

What is Endometriosis?

This is a condition in which tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus is found elsewhere in the body, most often in the abdominal cavity. It can be found on the ovaries, pelvic sidewall, and fallopian tubes, but can be present in many other areas in the abdominal cavity. In rare cases, it can be found on the bladder, lungs, spine, brain and skin. The tissue bleeds, but the blood has nowhere to go and scar tissue forms, often causing pain. The cause of endometriosis is still unknown. It is not a disease, and therefore cannot be transferred from one person to another. Endometriosis most often affects women during the years they are menstruating, and is very rarely found in postmenopausal women.

Symptoms of endometriosis include:
  • Pelvic pain - the most common symptom
  • Pain before, during, or after menstruation
  • Pain when urinating
  • Pain in the lower back
  • Pain during or after sexual intercourse
  • Pain during ovulation
  • Diarrhea, constipation and/or abdominal bloating connected with menstruation
  • Heavy or irregular bleeding
  • Fatigue
  • Infertility

Diagnosis of endometriosis is normally done with a procedure known as a laparoscopy and a biopsy is taken of the tissue. This is a surgical procedure, and while somewhat invasive, is the best way to diagnose endometriosis.

Treatments of endometriosis include:
  • Pain killers
  • Hormonal treatments
  • Nutritional therapy
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Surgery
 Click to visit the FPMU site
All content ©2006 Grand Valley Gynecologists, P.C.
1900 Wealthy SE, Suite 330
Grand Rapids, MI 49506

4600 Breton SE, Suite 202
Kentwood, MI 49508

Fax 616-774-0651
Phone 616-774-0700