Endometriosis Glossary: Terms You Should Know

Navigating the world of endometriosis can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re confronted with a barrage of unfamiliar terms and medical jargon. From adenomyosis to retrograde bleeding, understanding these terms is crucial for managing your condition and communicating effectively with healthcare providers. This endometriosis glossary aims to demystify these terms, empowering you with the knowledge to navigate your endometriosis journey with confidence. Adenomyosis A condition that’s characterized by growth of the endometrial tissue into the muscular wall of the uterus, adenomyosis can result in an enlarged uterus and painful, heavy periods. RELATED: What To Expect In An Endometrial Biopsy Biopsy A medical procedure in which a small piece of tissue or sample of cells is removed from the body for examination, usually under a microscope, to check for damage or disease. Cervix Tissue that connects the vagina and uterus. The cervical canal, which passes through the cervix, allows blood to pass through during menstruation, and a baby to pass through during childbirth; it also allows sperm to travel from the vagina into the uterus. Cul-de-sac A pouch that serves as an extension of the cavity between the rectum and the back wall of the uterus; endometriosis can occur in the pouch....