Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder or bowel. Each month this tissue reacts to hormones and bleeds, which can cause pain, inflammation and scarring. It affects around 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth.
Symptoms
- severe period pain that stops you doing normal activities
- pelvic pain at other times of the month
- pain during or after sex
- pain when pooing or peeing, especially during your period
- heavy periods
- extreme tiredness
- difficulty getting pregnant
Symptoms vary a lot. Some people with mild endometriosis have severe pain, and some with severe endometriosis have few symptoms.
Getting diagnosed
- talk to your GP and keep a pain and symptom diary
- you may have a pelvic examination and an ultrasound scan. A normal scan does not rule it out
- you may be referred to a gynaecologist. The only way to be certain is laparoscopy, keyhole surgery to look inside
Read about endometriosis treatment.
Common questions
Why does it take so long to be diagnosed?
Symptoms can be mistaken for normal period pain or other conditions, and the only certain test is keyhole surgery. In the UK, it takes on average around 8 to 9 years from first symptoms to diagnosis.
Can I get pregnant with endometriosis?
Many people with endometriosis get pregnant without help. Some find it harder, and treatments can help.
Sources we used
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