The tissue that lines the uterus is called the endometrium, and endometriosis occurs when the tissue is found growing outside the uterus in places where it shouldn’t, such as the lining of the pelvis, the ovaries and bowel.
Endometriosis can cause inflammation and scar tissue, and adhesion can form.
This can lead to pain, ranging from mild to severe. Endometriosis can also play a part in infertility. It’s thought around 130,000 Kiwi women and girls have the condition. It is not known what causes it, but it can run in families, so if a close relative has been affected, you may have an increased risk.
Treatment options include surgery, hormonal medication, the Pill and pain relief, while some women find natural painkillers, such as magnesium, can
also offer relief.