Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Endometriosis?

Endometriosis can make it difficult to get pregnant. The World Health Association (WHO) reports that endometriosis affects nearly 10% (190 million) of reproductive-aged people worldwide. Take this quiz to learn what you know about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of endometriosis.

Question #1. What is endometriosis?

1. A condition involving cells that make up the lining of the uterus (endometrium) growing abnormally outside the uterus.
2. A disorder that impacts the deep layers of the uterus.
3. A condition that always causes infertility.
4. All of the above.

Answer #1

A – Endometriosis is a condition that originates from abnormal growth of endometrium cells often involving pelvic tissue and the lining of organs such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, and bowel. Endometriosis can cause infertility in some people, but it doesn’t always interfere with a person’s ability to get pregnant.

Question #2. True or False: Endometriosis is easy to diagnose.

Answer #2

False – Endometriosis is often difficult to diagnose because each person may experience different symptoms. Some people do not experience endometriosis pain at all. Often those with very large endometrial growths experience the least pain.

Question #3. Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

1. Heavy menstrual flow and severe cramps before and during a person’s menstrual period.
2. Pelvic pain and painful sex, significant enough to avoid sex due to discomfort.
3. GI symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and painful bowel movements.
4. All of the above.

Answer #3

D – Symptoms of endometriosis can vary greatly, depending on which areas/organs are involved. Going through more than one pad or tampon every two hours strongly indicates heavy menstrual bleeding. It’s important to note that painful sex and GI symptoms can have many causes, but when accompanied by other key endometriosis symptoms, it may be indicative. Other symptoms may include painful urination, chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and infertility.

Question #4. True or False: Deep infiltrative endometriosis is a rare type of endometriosis.

Answer #4

True – Deep infiltrative endometriosis affects the rectovaginal area, vaginal wall, bowel, and urinary tract; symptoms may include long-term pelvic pain, bloody, or painful bowel movements, painful urination, pain during sex, and infertility.

Question #5. The treatment for endometriosis involves:

1. Laparoscopic surgery.
2. Hormone treatment.
3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).
4. All of the above.

Answer #5

D – First-line treatment for endometriosis is hormonal contraceptives combining estrogens and progestins. These hormonal treatments help minimize the growth of endometrial cells, reducing inflammation and pain, and resulting in lighter periods. NSAIDS such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Naprosyn) may be given for pain and inflammation. When medication is ineffective, laparoscopic surgery is used to remove tissue growing in abnormal places. A laparoscope (tiny tube with a camera) is inserted through the incision. A special instrument is attached to the scope to remove the affected tissue. This non-invasive surgery treats mild to severe endometriosis.