Endometriosis means that there is endometrial (inside the uterus) tissue outside of the uterine cavity. This tissue can be found outside of the uterus, often by your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvis. It continues to act like uterine tissue, meaning that with menstruation there is bleeding outside of the uterus leading to irritation and discomfort. Complications that may arise include cysts, scar tissue, and adhesions. Fertility problems are common in these women.

Symptoms: Painful periods, pelvic pain, excessive bleeding, infertility, bleeding between periods. Common treatment of endometriosis is to regulate the cycle with oral contraceptives.