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Endometriosis. Endoscope view of endometriosis in the recto-vaginal pouch of Douglas. Endometriosis is a condition where detached parts of the inner lining (endometrium) of the uterus escape into the abdomen and attach themselves to internal organs. The lesions and cysts that result (one at upper left, dark purple), bleed at the time of the menstrual cycle and cause great pain. The lesions and cysts can vary in appearance from red to white, clear and black. Treatment is usually with drugs. The recto-vaginal pouch of Douglas is an abdominal cavity that lies between the uterus and the rectum. The rectum is the final part of the digestive tract, and passes below the uterus. (KEYSTONE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/CNRI)