Condition guide
Endometriosis
Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain and sometimes infertility.
1 in 10
Women and girls worldwide
7–10 yrs
Average time to diagnosis
30–50%
Of infertility cases involve it
What it is
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition where endometrial-like tissue grows on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel and pelvic lining. The tissue bleeds with each cycle but has nowhere to go, causing pain, scarring and adhesions.
Infographic
Where endometriosis spreads
Lesions implant on pelvic organs outside the uterus.
Common symptoms
- Severe period pain that disrupts life
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during or after sex
- Painful bowel movements or urination
- Heavy bleeding
- Fatigue, bloating, infertility
Causes & risk factors
- Retrograde menstruation theory
- Immune system dysfunction
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal influences
Diagnosis
- Symptom history and pelvic exam
- Ultrasound or MRI for cysts (endometriomas)
- Laparoscopy is the gold standard
Treatment & management
Pain relief
NSAIDs as a first line for cycle-related pain.
Hormonal therapy
Combined pill, progestins, hormonal IUD or GnRH analogues suppress cycles.
Laparoscopic surgery
Excision of lesions can dramatically reduce pain and improve fertility.
Multidisciplinary care
Pelvic physio, pain specialists and mental health support.
When to seek urgent help
Sudden severe pain with fainting, fever or vomiting needs same-day medical review.
Frequently asked
Does pregnancy cure endometriosis?
No — symptoms may pause but typically return after childbirth.
Is endometriosis cancer?
No, but it is a serious chronic condition that deserves specialist care.
You are not alone
Join the My Gynae community to share experiences, get peer support and learn from women who understand.
Get involved