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Fertility Glossary

Endometriosis

Endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus.

Female fertility

Endometriosis can cause painful periods, pelvic pain, pain with sex and bowel or bladder symptoms, and it can affect fertility through inflammation, adhesions and ovarian damage. Diagnosis is often delayed for years in Canada as elsewhere. Treatment balances pain control, surgery and fertility plans — hormonal suppression relieves pain but prevents conception while it is being used.

Also known as: endo, pelvic endometriosis

Sources

  • Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) patient information

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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