Endometriosis is a hugely prevalent, yet largely misunderstood disease characterized by the abnormal growth of endometrium-like cells outside of the uterus, generally in the peritoneal cavity, but also in the distant extra pelvic organs such as lung, liver or spinal cord. Symptoms include chronic, debilitating pain, severe menstrual cramping, severe bleeding and painful intercourse. Endometriosis causes systemic inflammation, anxiety, depression, and bladder and bowel dysfunction. It is a leading cause of hysterectomy among women of reproductive age, and it's associated with infertility, cancer and cardiovascular disease.