Understanding Endometriosis
This information is for general education only and is not medical advice. It cannot replace a diagnosis or treatment plan from a qualified healthcare provider who knows your history. Always talk with your own doctor about your symptoms and options.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and sometimes infertility. According to the World Health Organization, it affects an estimated 10% of women and girls of reproductive age worldwide — approximately 190 million people globally.
Source: World Health Organization
The condition can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder, and other pelvic structures. Endometriosis is often underdiagnosed; recent systematic reviews put the average diagnostic delay at 6 to 10 years from symptom onset, though some women wait more than a decade. Minimally invasive excision surgery performed by a trained specialist is a well-established treatment, and is generally most effective when performed by a surgeon experienced in advanced endometriosis care.
Do I have endometriosis?
These conditions are often complex to diagnose and can look different in every patient. If several of these feel familiar, it's worth talking to a specialist.
Chronic pelvic pain
Pain that persists for 6 months or longer, often worsening during menstruation.
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
Severe cramping that may not respond to over-the-counter medications.
Pain during intercourse
Deep pain during or after sexual activity, often described as a sharp or burning sensation.
Heavy or irregular bleeding
Excessively heavy periods or bleeding between periods.
Infertility
Difficulty getting pregnant, which may be the first sign of endometriosis for some women.
Fatigue
Chronic exhaustion that goes beyond normal tiredness, often related to the body's inflammatory response.
2,400+ AAGL member surgeons list endometriosis as a focus area
These surgeons have identified endometriosis as an area of focus in their own listing. AAGL does not verify this information. Inclusion is not an endorsement.
How is endometriosis treated?
Treatment depends on your symptoms, severity, and goals. Here are the most common approaches, with an emphasis on minimally invasive options.
Excision surgery
The gold standard. A specialist removes endometriosis tissue completely using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques.
Hormonal therapy
Birth control pills, progestins, or GnRH agonists can suppress endometrial growth and reduce symptoms.
Pain management
NSAIDs, pelvic floor physical therapy, and other approaches to manage chronic pain.
Fertility treatment
IVF or surgical removal of endometriosis to improve fertility outcomes.
When to seek care urgently
This page is for education, not diagnosis. Some symptoms need prompt medical attention. Seek urgent care or call your local emergency number if you experience:
- Severe or sudden pelvic or abdominal pain
- Heavy vaginal bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon every hour for two or more hours
- Fever with pelvic pain
- Fainting, dizziness, or a racing heart
- Bleeding during pregnancy, or severe pain during pregnancy
- Sudden, severe pelvic pain can have many causes, including ovarian torsion or a ruptured cyst. Seek urgent care.
Frequently asked about endometriosis
Can endometriosis be cured?
There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but it can often be managed effectively. Expert excision surgery aims to remove visible disease and can provide significant, long-lasting relief for many patients. Results vary from person to person, and some people need more than one treatment or a combination of surgery and medical management. A trained MIGS specialist can help you weigh your options.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
The only definitive diagnosis is through laparoscopic surgery with biopsy. However, experienced specialists can often identify it through symptoms, physical exam, and advanced imaging like MRI.
Can endometriosis come back after surgery?
Endometriosis can recur after surgery. Some studies suggest excision may have lower recurrence rates than ablation, particularly for deeper disease, but the evidence is mixed and depends on the extent of disease and the surgeon's experience. Working with a trained MIGS specialist, and discussing whether medical management after surgery is right for you, can help reduce the chance of symptoms returning.
Does endometriosis affect fertility?
Endometriosis is found in an estimated 30 to 50 percent of women with infertility. Many people with endometriosis still conceive, sometimes naturally and sometimes with help such as surgery or fertility treatment. A specialist can talk through what makes sense for you.
Patient information sheets
Printable AAGL patient information sheets related to endometriosis.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided by Gynawareness, an educational initiative of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL), for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as, and should not be used as, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every patient is unique. Treatment options, risks, benefits, and outcomes depend on individual medical history, current health status, and clinical findings that can only be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
Do not delay seeking medical care, disregard professional medical advice, or stop a prescribed treatment because of information you have read on this site. If you believe you have a medical emergency, call your physician or 911 immediately.
Gynawareness and the AAGL do not endorse any specific test, product, procedure, opinion, surgeon, or other information that may be mentioned on this site.