It's Endometriosis Awareness Week this week. The condition affects more than two million women in the UK. It can become chronic and debilitating but with help, the symptoms can be controlled.
With endometriosis, a bit of the tissue that would normally line the uterus is found in another part of the pelvis.
Often it's in the ovaries but it's also found in the fallopian tubes or even the intestine.
Every month this rogue tissue responds to the hormones in the menstrual cycle in the same way as the lining of the womb.
First it grows then it breaks down and bleeds. Because it's in a place where bleeding doesn't normally occur, the result is inflammation and pain during the period.
Classically, it causes painful periods. Many women get discomfort on day one or two of their period but endometriosis could result in chronic pain for the full five to seven days.
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The inflammation that occurs with the condition can make sex painful too. Fertility can also be an issue if there is a lot of internal scarring from the condition.
There is currently no cure. The focus on treatment is to improve symptoms and the quality of life for the sufferer.
Hormone treatment can slow the progression of the disease and help with the pain every month. Surgery can maximise fertility.
Each woman may require differing approaches to treatment so it's vital to talk to your doctor.
For more information, go online to to www.endometriosis.org.uk
