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Endometriosis (Lower Abdomen)

Endometriosis is a condition that causes tissue that is supposed to grow inside the uterus to grow outside. It causes cramps and pain in the lower abdomen, and bleeding in between menstrual cycles. The disorder affects about 1 in 10 women and can cause serious issues if not treated. Because tissue can grow on other reproductive organs, like the ovaries and fallopian tubes, endometriosis can make it more difficult to get pregnant. It may also increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, a fertilized egg that grows outside the uterus.

Although there is no cure for endometriosis, it can be treated with hormonal birth control, which may help relieve symptoms. However, if hormonal treatments do not improve symptoms or the condition affects fertility, endometriosis tissue may need to be surgically removed from the affected organs.