Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a long-term condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries and the fallopian tubes. Each month this tissue responds to hormones in the same way as the womb lining, but the blood it produces has no way to leave the body, which can lead to pain, inflammation and scar tissue.

Endometriosis is a common condition that affects women and girls of reproductive age, and it can begin around the time periods start. Symptoms vary widely, so some people have severe pain while others have very little, which is one reason it can go unrecognised for a long time. It usually improves after menopause.

The main symptom is pelvic pain, which is often worse during periods and may be severe enough to interfere with daily life. Other symptoms can include heavy periods, pain during or after sex, pain when passing urine or stools during a period, tiredness, and difficulty getting pregnant. The amount of pain does not always reflect how widespread the condition is.

The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, and several explanations have been suggested, including the way menstrual blood flows and genetic and immune factors. It cannot be caught from another person. Having a close relative with endometriosis may increase the likelihood, and it tends to affect women during the years when they are having periods.

Diagnosis usually begins with a doctor asking about your symptoms and carrying out a pelvic examination. An ultrasound or MRI scan may be used to look for signs of the condition. The most reliable way to confirm endometriosis is a laparoscopy, a procedure in which a surgeon looks inside the pelvis using a thin camera and may take a small tissue sample.

There is no cure for endometriosis, but several treatments can help manage symptoms. These include pain relief, hormonal treatments that reduce or stop periods, and surgery to remove patches of endometriosis tissue. The best choice depends on the severity of symptoms, whether fertility is a concern, and personal preferences. Care is often shared between a GP and a specialist team.

There is currently no known way to prevent endometriosis, as its causes are not fully understood. However, its impact can often be reduced by recognising symptoms early and seeking advice rather than accepting severe period pain as normal. Working closely with a healthcare team to find the right treatment can help control pain, protect fertility where possible, and improve quality of life.