What is Endometriosis?
- Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb (endometrium) grows outside the womb — in places it shouldn’t be, like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the lining of the pelvis.
- This tissue reacts to hormones just like the womb lining: it builds up, breaks down, and bleeds during your menstrual cycle. But unlike a period, the blood has nowhere to go, which can cause pain, inflammation, scarring, and fertility issues.
How Common Is It?
Endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth – that’s as common as diabetes or asthma.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Symptoms vary from person to person, and some people have no symptoms at all. Common signs include:
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea) – often severe
- Pelvic pain between periods
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain when going to the toilet, especially during periods
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Fatigue or low energy
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Symptoms may be mild or severe, and they don’t always match how much endometriosis is present.
What Causes It?
We don’t know the exact cause yet, but possible factors include:
- Genetics (it can run in families)
- Issues with the immune system
- Retrograde menstruation (where menstrual blood flows backwards into the pelvis)
- Hormonal or environmental influence
How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis can take years, often because symptoms can overlap with other conditions like IBS or pelvic inflammatory disease.
To investigate, your doctor might suggest:
- Pelvic exam – to feel for lumps or tender areas
- Ultrasound scan – helpful, especially for ovarian cysts
- Laparoscopy – a keyhole surgery under general anaesthetic to look inside the pelvis and confirm diagnosis. This is the only way to diagnose it definitively.
How is It Treated?
There is no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms:
- Pain relief – such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
- Hormone treatments – like the combined pill, progestogen, or GnRH analogues to reduce or stop periods
- Surgery – laparoscopic surgery can remove or destroy endometriosis tissue
- Fertility support – including assisted conception options like IVF, if needed
- Support for mental health – such as counselling or support groups
Treatment depends on your symptoms, age, fertility wishes, and how much the condition affects your life.
Living With Endometriosis
Endometriosis can impact your physical and emotional wellbeing. It’s okay to feel frustrated or overwhelmed. You’re not alone.
Tips for managing day-to-day life:
- Use heat packs, relaxation techniques, and gentle exercise
- Keep a symptom diary to track flare-ups and triggers
- Talk openly with your GP or gynaecologist about all your options
- Connect with support groups or charities like Endometriosis UK
When Should You See a Doctor About Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood condition that can have a significant impact on your daily life. Many women suffer in silence, believing that painful periods or discomfort during their cycle are “normal.” However, severe pain is not normal, and you don’t have to endure it alone.
Signs It’s Time to Seek Medical Advice:
- Severe or Debilitating Period Pain
- If your menstrual cramps are so intense that pain relief is ineffective or you find it difficult to get out of bed, it’s time to talk to a specialist.
- Pain that disrupts your ability to work, exercise, or socialise should never be ignored.
- Heavy or Irregular Bleeding
- Extremely heavy periods, passing large clots, or bleeding that lasts longer than seven days may be linked to endometriosis.
- Spotting or bleeding between periods is also a sign that warrants investigation.
- Pain During or After Sex
- Discomfort during intercourse is a common symptom of endometriosis. Many women feel unable to discuss this, but it is important to address it with a healthcare provider.
- Pelvic Pain Outside of Your Period
- Persistent pelvic pain that isn’t just limited to your cycle can be a sign of endometriosis. This pain may also radiate to your lower back or legs.
- Difficulty Getting Pregnant
- Endometriosis is a known cause of infertility. If you have been trying to conceive without success, seeking specialist advice can help explore possible links to endometriosis.
You Deserve to be Heard and Supported
At WWWW, we believe that no woman should suffer in silence. Our team of specialists is dedicated to:
- Listening to your experiences without judgement
- Diagnosing your symptoms accurately and efficiently
- Providing effective treatment options tailored to your specific needs
- Supporting your fertility journey with expert advice and compassionate care
We offer:
- Advanced ultrasound diagnostics to identify endometriosis
- Personalised treatment plans including hormone therapy, pain management, and lifestyle adjustments
- Minimally invasive surgery options if needed
Take the First Step Towards Relief.
If your symptoms are affecting your life, it’s time to seek help. At WWWW, we are here to support you with expert care and understanding.
Book your consultation today—because living with pain is not something you have to accept.