endometriosis is a sickness when tissue similar to, but not identical to, endometrium cells of the uterus grow outside the uterus. as many as 11% of american women between 15 and 44 years-old may have this sickness. it is most commonly diagnosed in women 30-40 years-old, but affects people of every age and gender. having endometriosis can sometimes affect fertility. endometriosis symptoms can be treated by a doctor, but cannot be cured. wide-excision surgery can reduce or stol recurrence of disease. treating endometriosis may help a woman get pregnant.