Diagnostic Process

The diagnostic process for endometriosis typically involves several steps.

Remember, every individual’s journey with endometriosis is unique. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.

Here’s an overview of what you may expect:

Medical History and Symptom Evaluation

Your healthcare provider will ask you questions about your symptoms, their frequency, and any patterns you’ve noticed.

Physical Examination

A pelvic examination may be performed to check for any abnormalities or signs of endometriosis.

Imaging Tests

In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to visualize the pelvic area and identify any potential signs of endometriosis.

Treating Cramps

If there are no nodules or cysts, pain medicines, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) can help ease painful menstrual cramps. Hormone therapy along with pain relievers can be useful if you’re not trying to get pregnant.

Laparoscopy

The most definitive way to diagnose endometriosis is through a surgical procedure called laparoscopy. During this minimally invasive procedure, a small camera is inserted through small incisions to examine the pelvic organs and confirm the presence of endometriosis. Treatment can be performed at the same time.

General Questions

In this section, we invite you to explore your questions about endometriosis. Find answers to common concerns, ranging from symptoms and diagnosis to treatment and support options.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and possibly fertility issues. It commonly involves the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining your pelvis.

Symptoms vary for every individual but may include painful periods (dysmenorrhea), pain during intercourse, pain with bowel movements or urination, excessive bleeding, infertility, fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and nausea, especially during menstrual periods.

Any menstruating individual can develop endometriosis, so this can start as a teenager. Risk factors include never giving birth, starting your period at an early age, going through menopause at an older age, short menstrual cycles, having higher levels of estrogen, low body mass index, alcohol consumption, and having a family history of endometriosis.

Diagnosis may involve pelvic exams, ultrasounds, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and laparoscopy. Laparoscopy, a surgical diagnostic procedure, is considered the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis. It is important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms.

While there’s no cure for endometriosis,  treatments are available to alleviate symptoms. Treatment options include pain medications, hormone therapy, and surgery. The approach depends on the severity of symptoms and whether you hope to become pregnant.

Approximately 30% to 50% of women with endometriosis experience infertility. Endometriosis can affect fertility in several ways, but many women with mild to moderate endometriosis can still conceive and carry a pregnancy to term.

Every person is different. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, acupuncture, and pelvic floor physical therapy may help manage symptoms. Avoiding large amounts of alcohol and caffeine may also be beneficial.

Endometriosis lesions themselves are benign (not cancerous). However, research suggests that having endometriosis may increase the risk of certain types of ovarian cancer, known as epithelial ovarian cancer.

Endometriosis typically affects individuals with a uterus. There are extremely rare cases where endometrial tissue has been found in men, but such instances are exceptionally rare and usually occur with exposure to estrogen therapy.

There are many support groups and resources available for individuals with endometriosis. Online forums, local support groups, and national endometriosis organizations can offer support, information, and advocacy for those living with the condition.