Endometriosis is a common condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It can cause pain and, for some women, difficulty conceiving. Effective treatments are available for both.
What is endometriosis?
The endometrium is the tissue that lines the uterus. In endometriosis, similar tissue grows in places such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus and the lining of the pelvis. This tissue responds to monthly hormone changes, causing inflammation, pain and sometimes scarring. Cysts on the ovaries caused by endometriosis are called endometriomas.
What are the common symptoms of endometriosis?
- Painful periods that affect daily life
- Pelvic pain between periods
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain with bowel movements or passing urine during periods
- Heavy periods
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Some women have few symptoms, and the severity of symptoms does not always match the extent of the disease.
How is endometriosis pain different from normal period pain?
Normal period pain is usually manageable with simple pain relief and does not stop you from going about your day. Pain that is severe, gets worse over time, or occurs outside periods or during sex should be checked. See painful periods and infertility.
How does endometriosis affect fertility?
Endometriosis can affect fertility by causing scarring around the tubes and ovaries, damaging the ovaries through cysts, reducing egg reserve, and creating inflammation that affects eggs, sperm and embryos. Many women with endometriosis still conceive naturally.
How is it diagnosed?
- A history and pelvic examination
- A transvaginal ultrasound, which can show endometriomas and some deep disease
- Laparoscopy, which can confirm the diagnosis and treat endometriosis at the same time
What treatments are available for endometriosis?
For pain
Pain relief and hormonal treatments can reduce symptoms. Surgery may be recommended when symptoms are severe.
For fertility
- Laparoscopic surgery to remove endometriosis and cysts may improve the chance of natural conception in some women, but surgery on the ovaries must be planned carefully to protect egg reserve
- IUI may help in mild disease
- IVF is often recommended for moderate to severe endometriosis, blocked tubes or when other treatments have not worked. See IVF
Read more on our endometriosis care page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get pregnant with endometriosis?
Yes. Many women with endometriosis conceive naturally, and treatments such as surgery and IVF can help when needed.
Does endometriosis go away?
Symptoms often improve during pregnancy and after menopause, but endometriosis is usually a long-term condition that can be managed.
Is surgery always needed?
No. Treatment depends on your symptoms, the extent of the disease and your fertility plans.
If you have questions about your own situation, you can meet our doctors at our Basavanagudi, Koramangala and Ballari centres, or contact us to book an appointment.
This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made with a qualified doctor who knows your history.