The exact number of women suffering from endometriosis is unknown. However, it is estimated that 10% of women worldwide are affected. Endometriosis is a debilitating disease in which the endometrial cells that usually line the uterus are found in other regions of the body.

Every month, as part of the menstrual cycle, the endometrial lining in the uterus will thicken in preparation for a fertilized egg. If the egg is not fertilized, the endometrial lining will break down and bleed. Normally, this blood leaves the body as a period.

In endometriosis, the endometrial cells in other parts of the body also react to the menstrual cycle and bleed. But the blood cannot leave the body. This triggers a number of symptoms.

In our latest infographic supported by Evotec, we have defined endometriosis, explained why there are not enough treatments out there, and discovered what is being done to develop better therapies for this debilitating disease.

Text by Larissa Warneck, Science Journalist at Labiotech.eu

Images & Design by Elena Resko