WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the
uterus is also found elsewhere in the body, mainly in the abdominal cavity.
More about endometriosis
WHO GETS ENDOMETRIOSIS?
Endometriosis typically affects women during their menstruating
years. Symptoms can start with or after the first menstruation and, for most
women, the disease is rarely found after the menopause.
More about symptoms
IS THERE A CURE FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS?
No. But it can be treated, and for many women it is possible to manage their
symptoms through a combination of treatments.
More about treatments
WHERE DO I FIND SOMEONE WHO SPECIALIZES IN ENDOMETRIOSIS?
Most national or local support groups will be able to advise you
where to find specialist help. Also read our article on how to find a
specialist.
List of support groups
IS ENDOMETRIOSIS A SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE OR INFECTIOUS?
No. Endometriosis cannot be transferred from one human being to
another. The cause of endometriosis is not yet known, but it is not an
infectious disease.
More about the causes of endometriosis
IS ENDOMETRIOSIS INHERITED?
The cause for endometriosis is not yet known, but research does
show that first-degree relatives of women with this disease are more likely
to develop endometriosis.
More about the causes of
endometriosis
More news about
the genetics of endometriosis
WILL I BE ABLE TO HAVE CHILDREN?
It is estimated that 30-40% of women with endometriosis may have
difficulties in becoming pregnant (but this means that 60-70% will have no
problems!). If fertility is a great wish, then please discuss your symptoms
with your physician so that together you can develop the best treatment plan
for you.
More about treatments
WILL A HYSTERECTOMY CURE ENDOMETRIOSIS?
Some women chose, as a last resort to have a hysterectomy. However,
this does not guarantee complete pain relief.
More about
hysterectomy
WILL PREGNANCY CURE ENDOMETRIOSIS?
No. Some women find that their pain symptoms are reduced during
pregnancy, but this is not the case for everyone. In most cases,
endometriosis will return after giving birth and stopping breast feeding.
More about
endometriosis treatments
IS ENDOMETRIOSIS CANCER?
No. Endometriosis cysts are sometimes referred to as "benign tumors",
because they may "behave similarly" to cancer, but endometriosis
is not the same disease. In very rare cases, endometriotic implants
has lead to cancer, but this is very very rare.
