Endometriosis

An abnormal state in which bits of the endometrium grow outside the uterus. This tissue is normally stimulated by estrogen and inhibited by progesterone—this is similar to the endometrium. Before and during menstruation, these bits of tissue bleed causing abdominal pain and increased dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps. It is treated by suppression of estrogen, high levels of progesterone or both.