Endometriosis is the presence of endometrium (lining of the womb) outside the womb. It affects approximately 10% of women and can cause pelvic pain, painful periods, pain with intercourse, pain with passing urine or opening bowels as well as numerous other symptoms. The only way to diagnose endometriosis is by laparoscopy at which time it can generally be removed using fine laparoscopic instruments. Medical treatment is often effective in reducing pain but recurrence is highly likely without surgical intervention. Removing endometriosis surgically has been shown to reduce pain in more than 60% of women at 5 years and increases fertility rate.