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What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is present when tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus (womb) occurs outside this layer and in other parts of the body causing pain and/or infertility.

The lining layer is called the endometrium and this is the layer of tissue that is shed each month with menstruation (period) or where a pregnancy settles and grows.

This layer consists of two sublayers:

  1. A base layer that is always present, this is where the new tissue regenerates following a period.
  2. A surface layer that is shed with each period.

This information is not a substitute for a medical opinion. It is designed as an educational reference to allow you to make more informed decisions in consultation with your doctor.

Much of what is conveyed during a consultation can be forgotten. This package is here to help remind you of various points that may have been discussed in your consultation and your tailor-made care plan.