Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where the endometrium — cells on the inner layer of the uterus that are shed each month during a woman’s menstrual period — grow in other places, most commonly on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes or the lining of the pelvic cavity.

The condition can cause scarring between the ovaries, fallopian tubes and bowel or pelvic sidewall, making it harder for an egg to reach the uterus from the ovary via the fallopian tube. Endometriosis produces substances that are toxic to the egg, the sperm and the embryo. The endometrial lining inside the uterus also may be not as receptive as it should be due to a hormone receptor imbalance.

All of these factors can make it harder to become pregnant. Symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain
• Painful periods
• Heavy periods
• Problems becoming pregnant
• Or no symptoms at all