endometriosis
noun
en·do·me·tri·osis
ˌen-dō-ˌmē-trē-ˈō-səs
: the presence and growth of tissue similar to endometrium in places other than the uterus and especially in the pelvis and abdomen that often results in severe pain and infertility
Endometriosis is not malignant, but it mimics cancer in the way it spreads and attaches itself to other organs—most commonly the ovary, bladder, and bowel.—Consumer Reports
Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of female infertility and causes great pain and life disruption.—Paul G. Donohue
Cite this Entry
“Endometriosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endometriosis. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.
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