The old saying ‘knowledge is power’ is very true when it comes to understanding and managing endometriosis. This section lists sources of information you may find useful.

Ovulation
The release of the ovum (egg) from the ovary, which usually occurs about two weeks before the start of the next period.

Pelvic Cavity
The space within the pelvic bone that contains the reproductive organs, the bladder and the lower section of the bowel.

Pelvic Examination
An examination of the reproductive organs. The doctor palpates (feels) the organs by placing one hand on the abdomen and two or three fingers of the other hand in the vagina.

Peritoneum
A thin layer of tissue resembling cling-wrap that lines the pelvic cavity and covers the pelvic organs.

Pouch of Douglas
The area between the back of the uterus and upper vagina and the front of the lower end of the bowel.

Rectovaginal Septum
A band of tissue that lies between the back of the vagina and the front of the rectum.

Retrograde Menstruation
The backward flow of menstrual fluid through the fallopian tubes.

Uterosacral Ligaments
Ligaments (bands of tissue that hold parts of the body in place) that extend backwards from the sides of the uterus to the inside back wall of the pelvis and form the upper border of the pouch of Douglas.

Vaginal Ultrasound
An ultrasound of the ovaries performed using a small probe that is inserted into the vagina and gently moved around to obtain an image (picture) of the ovary.