What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a long-term medical condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. These growths can appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, other areas within the pelvis and in rare cases almost anywhere in the body,
Each month, this tissue responds to hormonal changes just like the uterine lining does, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, because the blood has nowhere to go, it can cause inflammation, pain, scar tissue, and adhesions.
Endometriosis 1 in 10 women yet many people experience delays in diagnosis due to symptoms being misunderstood or dismissed as normal period pain.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis
Symptoms can vary from person to person. Some individuals experience severe pain, while others may have minimal symptoms despite extensive disease.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain, especially during periods
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Pain during or after intercourse
- Pain when using the bathroom, particularly during menstruation
- Lower back or abdominal pain
- Bloating, nausea, or digestive discomfort
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Difficulty becoming pregnant or infertility
It’s important to note that symptoms can fluctuate over time and may impact daily life, work, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing endometriosis can sometimes take years because symptoms often overlap with other conditions such as IBS, pelvic inflammatory disease, or ovarian cysts and it doesn’t always show up on scans.
Medical History & Symptom Review
Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, menstrual history, pain patterns, and overall health.
Pelvic Examination
A physical examination may help identify cysts, tenderness, or scarring.
Imaging Tests
Ultrasounds or MRI scans can help detect ovarian endometriomas (cysts linked to endometriosis) and other abnormalities.
Laparoscopy
A laparoscopy is considered the most accurate way to confirm endometriosis. This minimally invasive surgical procedure is used to look inside the pelvis and, if necessary, remove or biopsy tissue.
Early diagnosis is important because timely treatment can help reduce pain, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Treatment and Management Options
While there is currently no guaranteed cure for endometriosis, there are many ways to manage symptoms and improve daily wellbeing.
Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relief or prescribed medications may help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Hormonal Treatments
Hormonal therapies such as contraceptive pills or hormonal coils are usually first line. Second line would be GnRH agonists (eg Zoladex) which suppress oestrogen and put the body into a temporary menopausal state. Often supplementary HRT is needed to prevent side effects.
Surgery
For some people, surgery may be recommended to remove endometriosis tissue, cysts, or scar tissue. In severe cases, more extensive surgical options may be discussed.
How Can Dr.Online Help
Living with endometriosis can feel overwhelming, but support is available. Our goal is to provide compassionate care, education, and guidance tailored to your individual needs.
We can help by:
- Listening to your symptoms and concerns
- Supporting you through the diagnostic journey
- Creating personalised management plans for 1st line hormonal treatments and pain relief.
- Connecting you with specialist care when needed
- Providing ongoing emotional and practical support
No one should feel alone while navigating endometriosis. With the right care and understanding, many people are able to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Written by: Dr. Rachel Tomlinson, Women’s Health Service Lead / GP
Last reviewed: May2026