(HealthDay News) -- Endometriosis occurs when the endometrium that lines the uterus attaches itself to organs outside the uterus. These implants continue to grow, causing abdominal pain and discomfort.

Other symptoms may include: painful menstruation or sexual intercourse, infertility, painful bowel movements, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, painful urination or lower back pain.

Although endometriosis can cause scar tissue that can make it difficult for some women to conceive, others have full-term, healthy pregnancies, the American Pregnancy Association says.

Proactive treatments have been successful in helping some women with endometriosis to become pregnant.