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Menstrual wellbeing - Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis can be a chronic and debilitating gynaecological condition.

It can develop at any age – from early teens to menopause. Approximately 2 million women in the UK are affected by endometriosis.

What causes endometriosis?

No one knows the exact cause of endometriosis but cells, like the cells in the lining of the womb, are found on the outside rather than the inside, mainly in the pelvic cavity. These cells still respond to the monthly cycle but, unlike with a period, the blood from them has no way of leaving the body. These cells may create painful inflammation, adhesions and cysts, or can be associated with infertility. There might also be a genetic link.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of endometriosis can vary. Some patients experience severe pain while others have no pain but might have difficulty in conceiving. Some patients have both strong pain and fertility problems. Pain can occur during periods, at ovulation, during and after intercourse and even with a bowel movement.

Because endometriosis develops in a variety of ways, diagnosis can be difficult and sometimes delayed. Presenty the average time of diagnosis is 7 years.

How might endometriosis affect my life?

Endometriosis might impact on a woman’s life in several ways, such as:

  • chronic pain
  • fatigue/lack of energy
  • depression/isolation
  • problems with a couple’s sex life and/or relationships
  • being unable to conceive
  • difficulty in fulfilling work commitments

But, with the right help, many of these issues can be addressed.

Can it be treated?

Currently, there is no cure. The only way to diagnose endometriosis is through a surgery called ‘laparoscopy’. This is an operation where a small opening is made, usually in the navel, and a tube with a very small camera (laparoscope) is inserted into the pelvic area. In most cases the procedure takes a day.

The two main forms of treatment are:

  • drug therapy
  • surgery

The choice of treatment depends on the needs of each individual patient and so should be discussed with your doctor.

What to do next?

If you think you might have symptoms that relate to endometriosis, you should contact your GP.

It is good to find out as much as possible about the disease and the different treatments that are available to help you make the right choice. Having in-depth and open discussions with both your GP and a gynaecologist will help identify your options. You should always ask about the benefits of any treatment – either medical or surgical – and also the side-effects.

Remember: it is your body.

For more information and support, visit Endometriosis UK.

Page last reviewed: 5th November 2025