Endometriosisoccurs when tissue similar to theendometrium(lining of the uterus, or womb) grows outside the uterus.
The lesions or implants can grow anywhere in the body.
This article reviews endometriosis lesions, what they look like, their location, and their types.
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It also covers the difference between endometriosis andadenomyosis, endometriosis staging, and how to find a specialist.
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What Do Endometriosis Lesions Look Like?
Endometriosis lesions are patches of endometrial-like tissue that can differ in size and color.
Some are small, flat, or raised and grow superficially in the pelvis (between the hips).
Others grow deeper and look like nodules or growths.
Color
Endometrial lesions can be clear, brown, black, blue, red, or white.
The black lesions are sometimes described as powder burns or gunshot lesions.
Superficial Peritoneal Lesions
Superficialperitoneallesionsare the most common.
Peritoneum
The peritoneum is the tissue in the pelvic cavity.
It covers the reproductive organs, digestive tract, and liver.
It grows deep in the peritoneum and looks like nodules or growths in the affected tissue.
Sensation
The most common symptom of endometriosis is chronic achy or cramping pelvic pain.
When pregnancy does not occur, part of this lining sheds, causingmenstrual bleeding (a period).
Endometriosis shows up when endometrial-like tissue or lesions are present outside the uterus.
They react like the uterus lining during your period or menstrual bleeding.
They grow and bleed, causing inflammation, pain, and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Adenomyosisis similar to endometriosis in that it commonly causes heavy menstrual bleeding and painful periods.
However, the misplaced endometrial tissue stays in the uterus and spreads to the myometrium (uterus muscles).
Staging
Staging is determined following surgery.
It can range from lifestyle modifications to surgery.
Heat Patches
Heat patches designed for menstrual pain are available over the counter (OTC).
you might wear them all day, which is helpful when you are on the go.
Keep an eye on your skin to ensure it doesnt get too warm.
Cold therapy utilizes ice or cool clothes to decrease inflammation or swelling.
Apply ice to the painful or inflamed area for 15 minutes several times a day.
Sometimes placing these medications on the lower back can help decrease inflammation in nerves such as the sciatic nerve.
This includes robotic surgery orlaparoscopy(minimally invasive surgery).
They usually work in medical centers, teaching hospitals, or private practices that utilize gynecological surgeons.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications, including infertility.
Three types of endo lesions are categorized by their location, invasiveness, and depth.
Treatment ranges from lifestyle modifications to surgery depending on symptoms, future pregnancy intentions, and overall health.
A Word From Verywell
Endometriosis can be painful and affect your activities of daily living.
Due to its complexity and overlap with other conditions, it can take years to receive an endometriosis diagnosis.
If you think you have it, seek a specialist or second opinion.
Early diagnosis and treatment can increase your quality of life and prevent complications, including infertility.
Sometimes they occur around the digestive or urinary system or, rarely, outside the pelvic region.
Being your own advocate is always a good practice and often means getting a second or third opinion.
This is especially true if you feel your healthcare provider is dismissive or disrespectful.
Finding an endo specialist can be helpful as endometriosis is complex and often mistaken for similar conditions.
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