N80: Endometriosis

N80.1: Endometriosis of ovary

With endometriosis, tissue resembling the mucous membrane of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Exactly why endometriosis occurs is not understood.

The uterus lies in the female pelvis and it has a lining of mucous membrane.During the normal monthly cycle, the membrane in the uterus gradually thickens. It is then expelled when you have your period. This process is controlled by various sex hormones. Endometrial tissue is normally only found in the uterus.

The endometriosis tissue does not perform the usual tasks of the mucous membrane in the uterus. Various symptoms may arise as a result. For example, you may experience sharp pains during your periods. Periods may be more severe than usual, as well. You may experience pain during sex, or recurring abdominal pain. It may also be more difficult to conceive. It is also possible that you will have no symptoms at all.

Inside your ovaries you have tissue resembling the mucous membrane of the uterus.

The ovaries are part of the female genitals. There are two ovaries, one on each side. The ovaries sit low down in the abdomen. Egg cells mature in the ovaries. The egg cells can later develop into a child. The ovaries also produce various messenger substances.