What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where cells which are similar to the lining of the womb (called endometrial cells) are found outside of the womb. These cells can cause pain and swelling, especially during your period. For some women, the pain can be severe if not treated.
These cells can be found in different parts of the body, but are usually found around the pelvis, bowel and ovaries.
Endometriosis affects about 1 in 9 Australian women, but this number is likely higher in reality.
What causes Endometriosis?
We don’t fully know why some women have Endometriosis.
Some doctors think that genes, hormones, inflammation and the immune system might play a part.