Endometriosis is a common disease in women of reproductive age. It involves tissues of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. During the
menstrual cycle built-up
endometrial tissues normally are shed if
pregnancy does not occur. In as many as one out of every 15 women, however, some endometrial cells escape from the womb into the pelvic cavity, where they attach themselves and continue their
hormone-stimulated
growth cycle. They may also migrate to remote parts of the body.
Mild
Endometriosis may clear up by itself or as a result of pregnancy. Frequently, the disease leads to painful inflammation, soreness, and infertility. Life-threatening complications can also arise, depending on the site of tissue growth. Surgical removal of the ovaries is often required. Nonsurgical treatment centers on suppressing secretion of the female hormone estrogen. Two drugs are approved for treatment: danazol, which has undesirable side effects, and lupron depot. A nasal spray, nafarelin, eases pain during the menstrual cycle.
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