What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a benign process characterized by the presence and proliferation of endometrial tissue that is normally found within the uterus, in other different areas outside of this cavity. There are different types:

  • Ovarian endometriosis: in the ovaries, giving rise to quite large size cysts - endometriomas. These contain a dark brown fluid, which accounts for their name of "chocolate cysts".
  • Recto-vaginal septum endometriosis: appears in the recto-vaginal space, the tissue found between the rectum and the vagina. Deep and very active.
  • Peritoneal endometriosis: affects the peritoneum, the tissue covering the internal organs. It frequently adopts different forms; reddish or brown-coloured patches or small cysts of a dark blue colour. These cysts are often found in the posterior wall of the uterus, but they can also occur in the bladder or intestines.