Endometriosis is a condition that affects the reproductive system and pelvic area of a woman’s body. The onset of the disease is subtle and often goes unnoticed, but gradually the symptoms begin to appear. Endometriosis is associated with the menstrual cycle and the hormones that trigger menstruation. The disease begins when tiny particles that resemble the lining of the uterus make their way towards the pelvic cavity. These particles start functioning like the uterine lining which is also known as endometrium. The endometrium responds to the hormones in the body and prepares for possible pregnancy every month by accumulating blood cells and other important chemicals. If pregnancy does not take place, the blood is shed through the menstrual period. The particles that travel to the pelvic cavity also function in the same manner and start reacting to hormones. However the blood that is shed from these growths cannot leave the body and this leads to internal bleeding and inflammation. This can continue for months and even years before symptoms of pain and discomfort start to surface. Many women only begin to suspect that something is wrong when they experience worsening pain during menstruation.
