Endometriosis is a potentially severe condition that involves improper development of the lining of the uterus in women. In this condition, the uterus lining develops outside of the uterus. This abnormal growth is not just a nuisance – it can be potentially dangerous and even deadly if not treated properly.

Endometriosis is more common then most people believe. According to researchers and statisticians, approximately two to ten percent of women develop endometriosis during their lifetime.

Endometriosis normally appears in women between the ages of 20 and 30; however, there are exceptions to this rule and some women develop the condition earlier or later in life.

When the tissue that makes up the lining of the uterus develops outside the uterus it can lead to significant health problems.

Endometriosis can cause extensive pain and discomfort. Internal bleeding and damage to other organs is also possible due to excessive tissue growth. Furthermore, many women who develop endometriosis go onto experience fertility problems – with an unfortunate few never being able to conceive, even with the focused help of reproductive specialists.

To date a true cause of endometriosis has yet to be discovered. Scientists have not been able to pinpoint exact the exact cause of endometriosis, although they do have a number of theories. The links between these theories and hard biology are not fully understood, however, scientists hope to one day unravel the mystery behind endometriosis

One of the theories involves the over production of the female hormone estrogen. Another theory involves erratic stem cell production in the wall of the uterus.

While medical professionals discuss all theories it is thought also that there is a genetic link. Close female relatives of those with endometriosis are more likely to develop the disorder.

The most common symptom is pain during menstruation. Other symptoms include:
- cramping
- lower back pain
- nausea
- fatigue
- infertility
- painful sexual intercourse
- painful bowel movements
- and the development of cysts.

Endometriosis occurs in four distinct stages.

The first stage is generally the most benign – the condition is just beginning in the ovaries.

The second stage is mild and in addition to appearing in the ovaries, it appears on the pelvic lining.

The third stage – or moderate stage is the steppingstone to the fourth and final stage where significant bodily injury is possible.

However, it is important to note that levels of pain are not directly related to the 4 stages. It is possible to have third or fourth stage endometriosis and not be experiencing significant pain, just as it’s possible to have stage 1 or 2 endometriosis and suffer severe pain.

Endometriosis is not something to be taken lightly. If you suspect that you may have endometriosis you should immediately seek medical advice for a diagnosis.

While there is no cure for the disease, it is possible to treat it through a variety of treatments.

Endometriosis Treatment

If you are suffering from debilitating endometriosis symptoms, the commonly recommended course of action by doctors is to take hormone treatment or undergo surgery. The problem with this approach is apart from being expensive, most medications prescribed for endometriosis come hand in hand with unwanted side effects - like supressing fertility and there are no guarantees that surgery will remove the need for further treatment.

For reliable endometriosis treatment information that focuses on preventing and controlling endometriosis symptoms naturally, read Treating Your Endometriosis; an easy to follow, comprehensively researched downloadable book by Shelley Ross.

Treating Your Endometriosis shows you how to take control of your endometriosis symptoms through the use of effective natural methods that avoid the need for expensive medications. Read how some simple lifestyle changes can have a huge positive effect on your health.