Is endometriosis a cause of painful sex? i always have some pain with intercourse and have read that is one of the symptoms of endometriosis. how do i know if i have endometriosis?

Endometriosis : Endometriosis is a condition where uterine lining tissue is in places besides the uterus, such as in the abdominal cavity, or even attached to the intestine. Often these patients have symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain. There are many different causes of pain during intercourse. Dryness, ovarian cysts, or even a persistent hymenal ring can cause pain during intercourse. Be sure you are using adequate lubrication. If your symptoms persist or are severe please see your gynecologist for an evaluation.

Endo and sex: Endometriosis is not contagious. It is an abnormal endometrial tissue that has traveled backwards down the fallopian tubes into the pelvis to implant. When a period comes, it bleeds and causes pain, scarring and progressive infertility. It can cause very painful intercoarse when implantation occurs on the uterine ligaments. This can be detected on vaginal exam by your gyno.