Where Are The Common Sites Endometriosis Occurs?

Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when tissue similar to the inside lining of the uterus is found outside of its normal location.

Endometriosis can occur at almost any site in the pelvis. Endometriosis is most commonly found to be sitting on the peritoneum of the pelvis behind the vagina and uterus, underneath the ovaries and sometimes on the ovaries.

It can also occur on the peritoneum in front of the uterus, between the uterus and the bladder. It less commonly grows on the fallopian tubes and, therefore, disrupts their function. More severe forms of endometriosis can grow inside the ovary, rather than just on the ovarian surface.

This sort of endometriosis often forms cysts, which we think may grow in from the pelvic wall, which slowly take over a lot of the ovarian substance. As these cysts have a small period every month, they soon fill with a thick, menstrual-type blood, which, as the water is absorbed out of it, starts to look like melted chocolate. This is how the "chocolate cysts", which are part of the more severe forms of endometriosis, occur.

Fortunately, they do not occur in the majority of patients as they are quite damaging to both the ovarian structure and its function. Rarely, endometriosis occurs in body sites away from the pelvis. It can occur in other parts of the abdominal cavity, such as on the surface of the liver, and has rarely been found in such places as abdominal wounds, or even in lung tissue.

If you think endometriosis occurs in your body, you should pay attention. You'd better go to see the doctor to have a test quickly. If you don't take timely measures,you may meet more severe problem because endometriosis can cause quite extensive scarring in the pelvis, immobilising the movement of the uterus and thus can cause pain on intercourse and pelvic examination. Generally, your family doctor can give you some useful tips.