Endometriosis
Overview
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, commonly affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, and surrounding structures. These areas of tissue respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, which can lead to inflammation, scarring, and pain.
The condition affects women differently. Some experience mild symptoms, while others have pain that significantly impacts their work, relationships, daily activities, and emotional wellbeing. Endometriosis may also affect fertility in some women.
The goal is to identify the condition early, reduce symptoms, support reproductive goals, and improve quality of life through personalised treatment and ongoing care.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary in severity and may not always reflect the extent of the condition. You may experience:
- Painful menstrual periods
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Pain during bowel movements or urination, particularly around menstruation
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Fatigue
- Abdominal bloating
- Lower back pain
- Difficulty becoming pregnant in some cases
Some women with endometriosis may have minimal symptoms, while others experience symptoms that interfere significantly with daily life.
Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, although several factors are associated with an increased risk. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have a family history of endometriosis
- Started menstruating at an early age
- Have shorter menstrual cycles
- Have heavier or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Have never given birth
- Have certain reproductive tract differences
Having these risk factors does not necessarily mean you will develop the condition.
When to Seek Care
You should seek medical advice if you:
- Have severe menstrual pain that affects daily activities
- Experience ongoing pelvic pain
- Have pain during sexual intercourse
- Notice bowel or bladder pain associated with your menstrual cycle
- Experience heavy periods
- Have concerns about fertility
Emergency Symptoms
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Sudden, severe pelvic or abdominal pain
- Heavy bleeding causing dizziness or fainting
- Severe vomiting associated with pelvic pain
- Difficulty passing urine or stool accompanied by severe pain
- Symptoms of significant blood loss, such as chest pain or shortness of breath
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent endometriosis. However, early recognition of symptoms and timely assessment may help reduce complications and improve quality of life. You can help support your wellbeing by:
- Seeking medical advice for persistent pelvic pain
- Tracking menstrual symptoms and patterns
- Attending recommended follow-up appointments
- Following prescribed treatment plans
- Discussing reproductive goals with your care team
Diagnostics Used
To assess endometriosis, your care team may use:
Support Services
Managing endometriosis often requires coordinated support addressing both physical and emotional wellbeing. You may benefit from:
- Medication and treatment monitoring
- Nutritional guidance
- Counselling and emotional wellbeing support
- Fertility counselling and referral where appropriate
- Follow-up care and monitoring
- Referral coordination where needed
This multidisciplinary approach helps support symptom relief, reproductive health, and quality of life.