I have a lot of pain with my periods and have been told I have endometriosis. What does this mean?

The lining of the uterine cavity is called the endometrium. If this tissue gets outside of the uterus, it can implant and grow in various areas of the pelvis and abdomen. This is called endometriosis. It is a common cause of pelvic pain and can cause infertility. The location and extent of the endometriosis as well as the degree of symptoms would determine the treatment necessary. Treatment must be individualized, and can range from observation, medical therapy, to minor and major operative procedures.