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Endometriosis
Endometriosis is when tissue like the womb lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and sometimes fertility problems. It is common and often under-diagnosed.
Causes & risk factors
- Exact cause is unknown
- Menstrual tissue flowing backwards into the pelvis (a leading theory)
- Genetic tendency — it can run in families
- Immune system differences
- Hormone (oestrogen) drives the growth of the tissue
Common symptoms
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Very painful periods
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain passing urine during periods
- Painful bowel movements during periods
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Fatigue
Tests & diagnosis
- Pelvic ultrasound
- MRI scan
- Laparoscopy (keyhole look inside)
- Complete blood count (CBC)
Treatment & management
- Pain relief with anti-inflammatory medicines
- Hormone treatments to reduce or pause periods
- Keyhole surgery to remove endometriosis tissue
- Fertility support if you are trying to conceive
- Pelvic physiotherapy and pain-management support for ongoing symptoms
When to see a doctor urgently
- Period or pelvic pain that disrupts your daily life
- Pain during sex or when passing urine or stool
- Trouble conceiving after a year of trying
- Symptoms not controlled by usual painkillers
Frequently asked questions
Does endometriosis affect fertility?
It can make conceiving harder, but many women with endometriosis do get pregnant, sometimes with treatment. Discuss plans early with a gynaecologist.
Why does diagnosis take so long?
Symptoms overlap with ordinary period pain, and confirming it often needs a scan or keyhole surgery. Keeping a symptom diary and pushing for review helps speed things up.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.