endometriosis
Common gynaecological complaint in which patches of endometrium (the lining of the womb) are found outside the uterus.
This ectopic (abnormally positioned) tissue is present most often in the ovaries, although it may invade any pelvic or abdominal site, as well as the vagina and rectum. Endometriosis may be treated with analgesics, hormone preparations, or surgery. Between 30 and 40% of women treated for infertility are suffering from the condition.
| Endometriosis is estimated to affect 10–20% of women of childbearing age in the USA (2005), and the incidence is believed to be rising. It is now among the three major causes of female infertility. |
