Endometriosis Glossary


Below is a comprehensive glossary and brief description of terms related to Endometriosis. While you are reading other pages, you may come across terms you are not familiar with. You can refer back here and find this quick reference in alphabetical order. 

Add-back - hormones (estrogen or estrogen/progesterone) which are given during a course of GnRH agonists drug treatment for Endometriosis, to help prevent bone loss and help alleviate other side effects of the GnRH agonists 

Adenomyosis - the lining of the uterus, the endometrium, grows into the muscular part of the uterus, sometimes known as the 'sister' of Endometriosis. 

Adhesion – web-like growths of scar tissue, which is a common cause of pain associated with Endometriosis. They can bind any of the pelvic organs to one another; may be caused by surgery, injury as well as endometriosis and commonly causes pelvic pain 

Analgesic - A drug that relieves pain. With an effective analgesic, there is an inability to feel pain while still conscious. From the Greek an-, without + algesis, sense of pain. 

Anesthetic – a drug used to prevent pain during surgery or other procedures. A general anesthetic makes the person unconscious. A local anesthetic numbs the area where the surgery is to be performed. Local anesthetics may be combined with sedatives to make a person relax and sleepy but not unconscious 

Anastomosis - surgical connection of tubular bodily structures (bowel, blood vessels), restoring or preserving it function 

Anemia – a low red blood cell count, caused by heavy menstrual bleeding or other blood loss; the most obvious symptom is fatigue. Can be a common problem with the heavy menstrual blood loss of Endometriosis 

Anovulation - failure to ovulate 

Anterior - the front part of an organ - as in anterior of the womb 

Antibiotics – drugs used to kill bacterial or fungal infections 

Anticonvulsants – drugs originally developed to treat epilepsy, but have been found to have other effects on the nervous system and the body's ability to perceive pain 

Antrogens - hormones produced in smaller amounts by women - responsible for facial hair and other secondary masculine characteristics. The same effects are caused by specific hormone drug treatment for Endometriosis 

Benign – an abnormal growth that is not cancer and will not spread to other areas of the body 

Biopsy - removal of tissue for diagnosis. This procedure should be performed during a Laparoscopy to obtain a definite diagnosis of Endometriosis 

Bowel Prep - this is a cleansing of the bowels prior to going into hospital for treatment, so that any treatment can be carried out in safety. It involves changing your diet for a day or two before treatment, and you are given various concoctions to purge your system completely. It is not a pleasant procedure, but does ensure the best outcome for your surgery to be done in safety and minimise any risk of infection 

This is a typical advice note from a GP/Doctor:
Bowel Prep- The process of cleaning the bowel of any solids prior to the examination of the bowel or bowel surgery. You may continue with your regular diet through the evening 2 days before your surgery. On the morning before your scheduled procedure begin a clear liquid diet only (broths and light soups are fine) At 9:00 AM on the day before surgery, begin drinking your ‘X brand’ solution Drink all of the solution by noon if you can. You will shortly experience the desired results. By 6 PM, your stools should be very clear. You may drink clear liquids until midnight. Don't drink or eat anything after midnight on the day of surgery. 

Bowel resection - a surgical procedure performed when a blockage of the intestines occurs. The procedure removes the portion of the bowel where the obstruction is located. This procedure may be used if Endometriosis has affected the bowel 

Breakthrough bleeding - irregular vaginal bleeding, like a light period, that can occur when taking hormone drug treatment for Endometriosis. This is probably caused by the body trying to overcome the suppressive effects of the hormone drug treatment. Also, a delayed dose of hormone treatment can cause breakthrough bleeding. 

CA-125 - a marker for ovarian cancer, which has been found to be elevated in women with Endometriosis but who do not have cancer 

Clomid - Clomidiphene Cirtrate - estrogen drug used in IVF to induce ovulation 

Coagulation – when used to refer to a surgical procedure, coagulation means the destruction of tissue with an electrical current, which is one procedure which may be used during a Laparoscopy to destroy the growths of Endometrial implants 

Colonoscopy - visualization of the large intestine through a scope, which may be used to check for Endometriosis in this region 

Coloposcopy - visualization of the vagina and cervix through a device which greatly magnifies 

Colostomy - temporary or permanent connection of the colon to the abdominal wall, allowing stool to be collected in a plastic bag attached to the opening of the abdominal wall 

Congenital - existing at birth - as in the theory that Endometriosis may be inherited 

CT scan - (CAT scan) stands for 'computerized axial tomography'. Basically, CT scans consist of a highly sensitive x-ray beam that is focused on a specific plane of the body. As this beam passes through the body, it is picked up by a detector, which feeds the information it receives into a computer. The computer then analyzes the information on the basis of tissue density. A picture is then produced on a screen showing a cross-section of the body. Bone shows up as white, gasses and liquids as black, and tissue as varying shades of grey, depending on ite density. A CAT scan is sometimes used to look for evidence of Endometriosis 

Cul-de-sac – a pouch formed by the space between the uterus and the rectum - also known as the Pouch of Douglas which is a prime site for Endometriosis 

Cyst - sac or cavity containing liquid, which is the major physical evidence of Endometriosis. 

Cytoscope - Examination of the wall of the bladder with a thin, lighted probe inserted through the urinary opening 

Danazol - hormone drug treatment for endometriosis. It is a derivative of testosterone (male hormone). This drug suppresses endometriosis by two separate mechanisms. First it will decrease estrogen production in the ovaries, by suppressing FSH production and LH ovulatory surge. The second mechanism is a direct effect on the implants of endometriosis causing them to shrink. Danazol has side effects including weight gain, hot flushes, increased hair growth and decrease in breast size, are the most common. 

Danazol vaginal suppositories - Vaginal Danazol suppresses endometriosis by absorption directly into the pelvic tissues through the wall of the vagina 

Diaphragm - the abdominal diaphragm separates the chest from the abdominal cavity, and endometriosis can be found in this site on occasions 

D & C - dilation and curettage, or scraping of the uterine lining while the cervix is dilated 

Dioxin – a toxic chemical found in some paper products, pesticide-treated food, any many other chemical by-products. It is now wide-spread throughout the world and may be linked to endometriosis because of the Xenoestrogenic effect on the body. See Xenoestrogens below. 

Dysmenorrhea – painful periods - the most common symptom of Endometriosis 

Dyspareunia - painful or difficult sexual intercourse experienced by a woman. Can be caused in endometriosis if adhesions stick organs together or with large ovarian cysts or internal inflammation. 

Dysuria - painful urination - sometimes a symptom of Endometriosis 

Ectopic pregnancy – when an ovum is fertilised and begins to develop inside the Fallopian tubes; a dangerous condition that can be fatal to a woman if left untreated. Ectopic pregnancy is more of a risk for women with Endometriosis 

Electrocauthery - method of sealing vessels and cutting tissue by use of a high-energy electric current 

Endo – short term for endometriosis 

Endocrine system - the body's control system that involves interactions between hormones. The word endocrine means internal secretions which act as messengers. Includes the hypothalamus, hypocampus, thyroid, parathyroid, thymus, adrenals, ovaries and testes 

Endocrinology - The study of the endocrine glands and the substances they secrete (hormones) 

Endometrial ablation – the removal of the endometrium using a variety of procedures including laser, microwave, electric current, or heated fluid and freezing. This is a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding that permanently stops menstruation and prevents future childbearing 

Endometrioma – A collection of endometriosis in the ovary. This is usually a cystic structure containing fluid resembling chocolate syrup or old motor oil 

Endometrium – the inner lining of the uterus. Menstrual flow is derived from the endometrium. After each menstrual period, the endometrium grows to replace the part of the surface that has been lost 

Endorphins - small molecules secreted by the brain that act as a natural analgesics. e.g. as morphine does in controlling pain. A product of the pituitary gland. They are thought to be concerned with controlling the activity of the endocrine glands. Thiamine is known to be used by endorphins. The increase of endorphins through exercise can help reduce the pain of Endometriosis 

Estrogen – a hormone that regulates the female menstrual cycle. Estrogen is the hormone that 'feeds' the continuing growth of Endometriosis 

Excision – to surgically cut out and remove tissue using any surgical tool including a laser 

Fallopian tubes – tubes through which the egg passes from the ovary to the uterus 

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) - the hormone that is released by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the ovary to produce follicles and mature eggs. Released in the first 14 days of the cycle. In anovulation the FSH is deficient 

Gastrointestinal disorders - disorders that affect the intestines and stomach, causing cramping, diarrhea and/or constipation. Often diagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Endometriosis commonly causes gastrointestinal disorders especially IBS 

Gonadotrophins - the hormones (LH and FSH) released from the pituitary gland which stimulate the ovaries to produce follicles and undergo the process of ovulation 

Gonadotrophin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) - hormone produced in the hypothalamus that stimulates the pituitary to produce and secrete gonadotrophins. Its production is dependent on absorption of zinc and vitamin B6 

GnRH – stands for Gonadotropin-releasing hormone; one of the hormones that regulates the female menstrual cycle 

GnRH agonists (gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists) – a group of drugs which reduce a woman's estrogen levels; these drugs are used to treat endometriosis and reduce the size of fibroids. These drugs prevent ovulation and cause an artificial menopause. They may cause symptoms similar to the menopause, and can also cause bone mineral loss eventually leading to osteoporosis. For these reasons, GnRH agonists are most often a temporary treatment, relieving symptoms until other approaches can take effect 

Harmonic scalpel - a laparoscopic instrument that uses energy created by sound waves to cut tissues and seal blood vessels. May be used during surgery to treat Endometriosis 

Heavy Bleeding - a common symptom of endometriosis. Heavy bleeding can be caused by: hormone imbalance, certain prostaglandins, cartain BCP's, certain anti-inflammatory drugs as well as other gynecological disorders like Fibroids 

Hormone receptors - special proteins on, or in cells to which hormones attach. Attachment (binding) of the hormone to the receptor will cause the endocrine effect of the hormone. Can be disrupted by Xenoestrogen hormones from pesticides and other chemicals. See Xenoestrogens 

HRT - hormone replacement therapy - used after a total hysterectomy with the aim to restore some hormonal balance in the body and prevent osteoporosis. 

Hypermenorrhea - increased menstrual flow which is common with Endometriosis 

Hypothalamus - part of the brain that directs the nervous system, endocrine system 

Hysterectomy – the removal of the uterus. During a simple hysterectomy only the uterus and cervix are removed, during a total hysterectomy the uterus and cervix are removed along with the ovaries and fallopian tubes. The more extensive procedure is usually used in cancer treatment and to treat fibroids. Total hysterectomy is too commonly used for the treatment of Endometriosis. This is usually mis-guided information given to women, that the procedure will eliminate the disease for good. 

Hysterosalpingograph - x-ray with dye injected into the uterus to see if the tubes are obstructed 

Hysteroscopic resection – the removal of fibroids from the inner wall of the uterus with a fiberoptic device called a hysteroscope. 

Implants – small, flat patches of endometrial-like cells growing outside the uterus. The main evidence of Endometriosis 

Infertility – the inability to have children; not being able to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected sex, or the inability to carry a pregnancy to a live birth. 

Inflammatory reaction - reaction of the body to trauma, infection, or foreign substances. The purpose of the reaction is to isolate, neutralize or remove it from the body. There is an inflammatory reaction caused by Endometriosis implants or growths 

Intravenous – injection of a substance directly into a vein 

Intrauterine - In the uterus (the womb). As opposed to extrauterine: outside the uterus. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome - (IBS) a bowel disorder which can cause abdominal cramps, diarrhea or constipation, and urgency. Irritable bowel syndrome does not cause physical changes in the gut. IBS is very common with Endometriosis. 

Laparoscopy – this procedure uses a fibre-optic device called a laparoscope to examine the inside of the pelvic cavity. The laparoscope is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen. This is the most common procedure used to diagnose and treat Endometriosis. 

Laparotomy – traditional abdominal surgery - the incision is made in the abdominal wall vertically or horizontally. The surgery is performed through these incisions. Recovery takes longer and is more painful. This type of surgery is used if Endometriosis is more advanced and the surgeon needs better access to the abdominal cavity 

Laser - a laser is an instrument that uses a beam of light (energy) to cut, vaporize and coagulate tissues and seal blood vessels. There are 3 major types of laser used in gynecology - Argon laser - using Argon gas. CO2 laser - the most common, which mixes CO2 to create a laser. YAG laser - produces a beam of energy that can be transported via a flexible fibre. 

Laser ablation - one method of destroying endometriosis, utilizing a concentrated beam of light 

Luteinising hormone (LH) - hormone produced by the pituitary which stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone. Released from day fourteen to day twenty eight in the normal cycle. 

Lupron Depot - a GnRH agonist drug used in the treatment of Endometriosis, that causes pseudomenopause by suppressing production of FSH and LH hormones. Causes the body to go into a menopausal state with the aim of causing the endometriosis implants to shrink, due to the lack of estrogen. There are many side effects associated with Lupron Depot including the possibility of bone density loss, Women are then given Add-back therapy (see above) of estrogen, in the hope of counter-balancing this problem. 

Lupus erythematosus – an autoimmune disease where the body's own immune system attacks its tissue; may cause a skin rash, arthritis and/or damage to the kidneys and cardiovascular system 

Luteal phase - the portion of a woman's menstrual cycle between ovulation and menstruation 

Macrophage - a wandering cell that is found in tissue and blood that can 'eat' bacteria and other 'alien' matter that makes its way into the body

Mirena Coil - The Mirena Coil has started to be used for the treatment of Endometriosis, because the hormone which is released by the coil greatly reduces menstrual blood flow.

The Mirena Coil is an Inter Uterine Device (IUD). IUD's are normally small plastic or metal devices placed inside the uterus. Standard types create a mild inflammation that prevents sperm from fertilizing eggs or fertilized eggs from implanting themselves on the uterine wall.

The Mirena works, instead, by delivering a small quantity of hormone (20 mcg levonorgestrel) directly on the inner wall of the uterus continuously for five years. The dosage is the equivalent to taking two to three mini-pills a week.

Recently doctors have been treating heavy periods by inserting the Mirena Coil. which can reducing blood flow by 85% within three months. Eventually periods may stop completely. 

Myofascial Release Massage – An internal physical therapy technique that can stretch and massage the pelvic muscles to decrease pelvic spasms. 

Myomectomy – the surgical removal of a fibroid 

Neurectomy – removal of a specific nerve, usually to treat pain associated with Endometriosis 

Neurons – long, branched cells that carry nerve impulses including pain signals 

Neuropathic pain – a different pain experience, because the ability of the nervous system to perceive pain has been damaged by chronic pain. 

Nodule – a small lump or cluster of tissue 

Oophorectomy - surgical removal of the ovaries, which will be performed during a hysterectomy as treatment for severe Endometriosis 

Opioids – a group of drugs, which include morphine and opium, that relieve pain and cause sedation, constipation and slower breathing 

Oral contraceptive - orally administered drugs that are derived from ovarian steroids which interfere with the reproductive process and induce infertility. They disrupt blood chemistry causing vitamin A and copper levels to be raised whilst lowering levels of B vitamins and zinc. Often used to treat Endometriosis 

Osteoporosis – a disease in which the bones become thin, porous and break easily. Osteoporosis is a side effect of using specific hormone drug treatment (GnRH agonists) for Endometriosis 

Ovaries – female glands that produce eggs and the hormones estrogen and progesterone. A common site for the cysts of Endometriosis 

Ovarian Cystectomy - This is the removal of an ovarian cyst (fluid-filled collection) from the ovary and then conserving the ovary. 

Ovarian Follicle - the normal 'cyst like' structure that forms on the ovary during the menstrual cycle, which contains the developing egg 

Ovary - almond shaped organs lying in the pelvis that produce hormones (estrogen and progesterone) and eggs 

Ovarian cysts - a fluid filled sac, one or more of which can develop in the ovary. Most are non-malignant but can reach a very large size and cause gross swelling and pain. In endometriosis chocolate cysts filled with stale brown blood are common. With polycystic ovaries many cysts develop. High copper levels are related to cyst formation. The pill increases blood copper levels. 

Ovulation - the process of expulsion of the egg from the ovarian follicle to the Fallopian tube. Occurs around the 14-15th day of a normal cycle. 

Oxytocin - a protein derived hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary that stimulates uterine contractions during the birthing process and the release of milk from the breast. 

Pap smear/test - staining test used to detect abnormal cells 

PCBs – polychlorinated biphenyls; chemicals, now banned in many countries, but still present in the environment. They were once used in inks, paint, and as additives when making plastics. These chemicals are Xenoestrogens which 'feed' Endometriosis 

Pelvic congestion – dilation (swelling) of the veins in the pelvis causing pressure and pain 

Pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID) - a general infection in the peritoneal cavity that can be caused by a variety of bacteria that gain entrance into the peritoneal cavity through the female reproductive tract from poor hygiene or infected male sperm. The disease is associated with flu like symptoms and adhesions leading to infertility. Often given as a mis-diagnosis to the symptoms of Endometriosis 

Peritoneal Cavity - the lower abdomen (belly) which contains the reproductive tract, bladder,kidneys and adrenals, small and large intestine, liver, pancreas and stomach. Endometriosis can be scattered all over the Peritoneal cavity 

Peritoneal Fluid - the fluid found in the peritoneal cavity 

Peritoneum – the thin membrane that covers the pelvis and abdomen walls, as well as the pelvic organs 

Peyers Patches - clusters of cells found on the small intestine that are involved in the immune system. They act as testing stations for 'alien' food particles, bacteria, parasites, chemicals etc. It is the peyers patch that is thought to react favorably to Castor Oil pack treatments to help alleviate the pain of Endometriosis 

Phytoestrogens - which are plant based compounds that act like estrogen in the body and are found in many foods we eat. ‘Many different plants produce compounds that may mimic or interact with estrogen hormones. At least 20 compounds have been identified in at least 300 plants from more than 16 different plant families. Referred to as phytoestrogens, these compounds are weaker than natural estrogens and are found in herbs and seasonings (garlic, parsley), grains (soybeans, wheat, rice), vegetables (beans, carrots, potatoes), fruits (dates, pomegranates, cherries, apples) and drink (coffee). Phytoestrogens differ a great deal from synthetic environmental estrogens (Xenoestrogens) in that they are easily broken down, are not stored in tissue and spend very little time in the body. 

Pituitary - endocrine gland at the base of the brain that secretes a variety of hormones many of which affect other endocrine glands. The major hormones of the pituitary that affect the reproductive system are Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinising Hormone (LH) and prolactin. The pituitary is divided into the anterior (front) and posterior (back) pituitary. Known as the conductor of the endocrine orchestra. Known to use vitamin B6 and zinc. 

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - (PCOS) simultaneous formation of many cysts on both ovaries. Can be present along with Endometriosis 

POPs - Persistent Organic Pollutants - this is a generic title for chemicals found in the environment which do not break down by natural processes. The word ‘organic’ is used because they are carbon based. 

There are many of these substances in use, which then enter the environment. The best known are PCBs and Dioxin. See Xenoestrogens 

Pouch of Douglas - the blind pouch that makes the bottom of the peritoneal cavity. It lies between the vagina and the colon and below the left ovary. Also called the 'cul-de-sac' area of the peritoneal cavity. It is a prime site for endometriotic implants. 

Premarin - conjugated estrogens obtained from the urine of pregnant mares used for HRT. The method of collecting the mares urine forces the mare to be tied up continuously in her stable with a bag tied to her rear end to collect the urine. 

Presacral neurectomy - a surgical procedure in which nerves at the back of the uterus are severed in an attempt to eliminate or reduce pain associated with endometriosis 

Proctosigmoidoscopy - Insertion of a lighted tube to search for tumors, polyps or endometrial tissue in the lower bowel 

Progesterone - female steroid sex hormone which prepares the endometrium of the uterus for pregnancy and is required for the maintenance of pregnancy. Secreted by the corpus luteum in the ovary once conception has taken place to prepare the womb lining and placenta. Maintains the pregnancy and prevents release of further eggs from the ovary. 

Progesterone Cream - a laboratory produced compound that acts like human progesterone and helps to alleviate the symptoms of Endometriosis, PMT and the menopause. 

Progestogens – synthetic chemicals, mostly made from plant sources, which are used to shrink endometrial tissue. They are used as an endometriosis treatment but can have severe side effects. 

Prostaglandins – naturally-occurring substances that cause the uterus to contract and are responsible for period cramps and possibly the pain of Endometriosis. 

Pseudomenopause - a hormonal drug induced state of menopause. Used as a drug treatment for Endometriosis to stop the menstrual cycle and shrink endometrial implants. 

Rectovaginal septum - the wall separating the rectum and the vagina 

Resection – the surgical removal of an organ or other structure 

Retroflexed - tilted backward 

Retrograde bleeding – the backward flow of menstrual discharge through the fallopian tubes into the pelvis, which occasionally occurs during a woman's period. Has been thought to be the cause of Endometriosis 

Retroverted - tilted forward 

Salpingectomy - Surgical removal of a fallopian tube 

Scar tissue - tissue formed in the body's attempt to repair damaged tissue. Scar tissue will develop with adhesions of Endometriosis 

Sigmoidoscopy - a procedure that enables the physician to examine the lining of the rectum and a portion of the colon, by inserting a flexible tube that is about the thickness of your finger into the anus and advancing slowly into the rectum and lower part of the colon. 

Spinal cord – the bundle of nerves inside the spinal column that carry nerve impulses to and from the brain 

Staging - the various classifications of Endometriosis based on the severity of the disease 

Suction evacuation - Removal with a suction device of the ovarian cysts of Endometriosis 

T Cells - a type of cell that helps the immune system; also known as T helper cells, which switch the immune system on and T-suppresser which switch the immune system off 

Thoracic Endometriosis – Endometriosis in the thorax or chest cavity. The two most common areas are either deep in the lung tissue or on the pleura, the tissue surrounding the lungs 

Thoracentesis - A search for endometrial blood in the lungs through a small puncture in the wall of the chest 

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) - the hormone secreted by the pituitary that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine 

Thymus - a ductless gland that is found under the breast bone. Doubles in size by puberty and shrinks thereafter. Functional tissue is replaced by fatty tissue. Involved with the early development of the immune system and the main production site for T-lymphocytes which migrate from bone marrow to mature in the thymus (white blood cells associated with anti-body production) Zinc dependent organ. 

Thyroxine - the major hormone secreted by the thyroid. Thyroxine regulates general metabolism. Iodine dependent, Requires riboflavin, vitamin B2, selenium, and vitamin E for its formation. Antagonists with estrogen. If estrogen is too high thyroxine will be low and visa versa 

Tilted (tipped) uterus - A tilted uterus is a general term that refers to a uterus that's tipped backward (retroverted) instead of normally forward on the cervix. Doctors may also call this a tipped uterus. 

In most cases, this is a normal anatomical variation. It causes no signs or symptoms and needs no treatment. In the past, it was thought that a tilted uterus may contribute to infertility. But this isn't true. Rarely, a sharply tilted uterus may be due to disease such as endometriosis. In this case, endometriosis — not the position of the uterus — may cause infertility. 

Transvaginal surgery – surgery where the incision is inside the vagina; transvaginal surgery may be used for surgery that affects the bladder such as stress incontinence 

Trigger points – painful areas on the body caused by referred pain. 

Tumor – a mass of cells that may be benign or cancerous. The mass of cells or cysts of Endometriosis are not cancerous 

Ultrasound – An ultrasound is used to visualise soft body tissues by directing high frequency sound waves. The 'echoes' produce an on-screen image. Thicker tissue appears lighter on the ultrasound screen. This procedure is sometimes used to try and diagnose Endometriosis, but is not very reliable as Endometriosis may be present as microscopic implants that cannot be picked up by the ultrasound 

Urethral syndrome – pain and inflammation of the urethra which carries urine from the bladder 

Urinary tract disorders - disorders of the urinary tract causing painful urination, frequent urination, and/or urine leakage, such as cystitis. Sometimes confused with the symptoms of endometriosis on the bladder

Uterosacral ligaments – ligaments that attach the uterus and cervix to the base of the spine. Can often be the location of Endometriosis cysts or growths 

Uterus – the female organ that holds and sustains the fetus 

Vaporization – one way to surgically treat endometriosis by destroying endometrial tissue with a laser or electrosurgical knife 

Visceral – pertaining to the internal organs 

Xenoestrogens - which are chemically based compounds that enter the body and can act like or interfere with the bodies own estrogen hormones. Most xenoestrogens enter the body via the food chain with the use of herbicides, pesticides, industrial pollution washing onto pasture land and then consumed by live-stock, and the most widespread toxin on the planet - Dioxin - also mimics the action of estrogen. These xenoestrogens are also produced by chemicals found in toiletries. Xenoestrogens will have an adverse affect on Endometriosis as they will feed the growths of Endometriosis by acting like estrogen in the body. 

Yam Cream - a plant based cream containing extracts of Wild Yam. Has been advertised and promoted to assist with estrogen dominance and Endometriosis - but research has found that the compounds in this cream are unable to convert into any useful properties in the body for serious health problems. Yam cream may be beneficial for the skin. Many women have though Yam cream and Progesterone cream are the same thing - but they are not.