endometriosis

Endometriosis is an often painful condition among women, associated with menstruation and often accompanied by excessive bleeding. It is quite common and under-diagnosed, and may account for half of all infertility. About seven million U.S. women are thought to have it. Medical and surgical treatments can help.
A recent New York Times Well article tells the stories of three women who all experienced almost exactly the same problem. As teens and pre-teens, they had agonizingly painful periods, accompanied by nausea, constipation, and exhaustion. Multiple doctors told them that what they were experiencing was a normal part