Endometriosis - Risk Factors

Complications

Pain

Adhesions, the dense, web-like structures of scar tissue that can attach to nearby organs, can cause significant pain. Pelvic pain is the most common complaint for women with endometriosis, and it can significantly impair the quality of life, including work and social activities. The pelvic pain associated with endometriosis is usually chronic (lasting more than 6 months). Pain may also occur in the abdomen and back.

Infertility

Infertility is another main complication of endometriosis. Endometriosis is responsible for about a third of cases of female infertility. Endometriosis rarely causes an absolute inability to conceive, but it can contribute to infertility both directly and indirectly:

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• If implants occur in the fallopian tubes, they may block the egg's passage.
• Implants that occur in the ovaries prevent the release of the egg.
• Adhesions that form among the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes can prevent the transfer of the egg to the tube.

Effects on Other Parts of the Pelvic Region

Implants can also occur in the bladder (although less commonly) and cause pain and even bleeding during urination. Implants also sometimes form in the intestine and cause painful bowel movements, constipation, or diarrhea.

Review Date: 07/26/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).