Endometriosis Research Center
About Endometriosis Research Center
The Endometriosis Research Center (ERC) is voluntary, non-profit foundation that was established to address the growing, international need for endometriosis education, research, support and advocacy. The ERC is unique in that, unlike similar foundations, they are the only endometriosis organization in the world to offer free access and participation. Endometriosis occurs in women of reproductive age when the ectopic tissue (endometrium) of the uterus, usually shed during the menstrual cycle, is not completely shed. The tissue escapes the uterine cavity and spreads to other parts of the body. When this happens, the endometrial tissue can bleed during the menstrual cycle causing cramping, severe pain, heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding or bleeding from the rectum or bladder. This endometrial tissue can attach itself to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, lymph nodes, intestines, rectum or in rare cases, the lungs.