As they would in the uterus, these cells respond to hormonal changes and thicken, break down, and bleed with each menstrual cycle.
However, because the displaced tissue has no way to exit the body, it can cause inflammation and painful cysts, as well as make the surrounding tissue irritated and scarred. Adhesion can also form from the tissue, which causes organs to stick to each other.
Common symptoms of endometriosis include very painful and heavy periods, pain when having sexual intercourse, pain with bowel movements or urination, excessive bleeding, fatigue, constipation, bloating, nausea, and it can also cause infertility.
