endometriosis

endometriosis A noncancerous condition in which tissue that looks like endometrial tissue grows in abnormal places, most often in the abdomen. Although most women with endometriosis have no symptoms, pelvic pain during menstruation or ovulation can be a symptom of endometriosis. Endometriosis can also be suspected by a physician during a physical examination and confirmed by surgery, usually laparoscopy. Treatment options include medication for pain, hormone therapy, and laparoscopic surgery to remove the growths (hysterectomy was once done but is usually ineffective). Most women with endometriosis are completely unaware of these growths, and are not harmed by their presence. However, endometriosis can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause infertility. See also adenomyosis.