Health Tips for December 12

Health Tip: Where Endometriosis May Occur

Endometriosis occurs when tissue that should only line the uterus (endometrium) grows somewhere else. The condition can cause pain before and during the menstrual period, and can sometimes lead to infertility, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The organization says endometriosis most often affects: The ovaries. The fallopian tubes. The bowel or rectum. The bladder and the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys (ureters). The area behind the uterus. The tissues that line the abdomen and pelvis (peritoneum). Health Tip: Risk Factors for Endometriosis Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that resembles uterine lining grows outside the uterus. Symptoms may include pain, infertility and very heavy periods. The National Women's Health Information Center offers this list of common risk factors for endometriosis: Starting your period at a young age. Having very heavy periods. Having periods that last more than seven days. Having a short monthly menstrual cycle of 27 days or fewer. Having a close relative who has the condition.