September 4, 2025
Endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide, making it one of the most common yet underdiagnosed gynecological conditions. If you’ve ever wondered what it really is, what causes it, how it shows up, and what you can do about it, this guide is for you. In this blog, you’ll learn:
By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of endometriosis—from symptoms and risks to lifestyle strategies—so you can take informed steps toward better health.
Endometriosis happens when tissue that behaves like, but is not identical to, the uterine lining (endometrium) grows elsewhere—commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic walls, or even in places like the lungs, diaphragm, bladder or the bowel. These cells still respond to monthly hormones—building up, bleeding, and causing inflammation—leading to pain and scarring over time.
The exact cause remains unknown, but several theories explain its development:
Retrograde menstruation: Menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity, where cells implant and grow.
Immune system differences: A less effective immune response may allow these cells to survive where they shouldn’t.
Genetics & environmental factors: A family history increases risk, and exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals may also play a role.
The symptoms vary, but common signs include:
| The severity of pain doesn’t always match how much endometriosis is visible; some with mild disease experience excruciating pain, while others with severe growths may have mild symptoms. |
It often causes unusual menstrual bleeding and more intense pain compared to typical period cramps. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Heavy or irregular bleeding: Many experience very heavy flows, spotting between cycles, or bleeding that lasts longer than average.
Two types of dysmenorrhea (period pain):
This distinction helps doctors recognize when cramps may signal endometriosis rather than routine period discomfort.
It can affect fertility in several ways:
| Not everyone with endometriosis is infertile—many conceive naturally—but fertility challenges are more common. Treatments include surgical removal of lesions, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, and lifestyle adjustments to support reproductive health. |
Endometriosis After Pregnancy
Some women notice improvement in endometriosis symptoms after pregnancy, possibly due to hormonal changes that temporarily suppress periods and reduce lesion activity. However:
Management after pregnancy may involve resuming hormonal treatments, considering surgery if needed, or using lifestyle strategies for pain relief.
| Pro Tip: When endometriosis is highly suspected after other assessments, laparoscopy plays a key role in both confirming the diagnosis and treating lesions in the same session. |
Adenomyosis and endometriosis often coexist in the same individual. Here are the differences:
| Feature | Endometriosis | Adenomyosis |
| Location of tissue growth | Outside the uterus (ovaries, tubes, pelvic lining, etc.) | Into the muscular wall of the uterus (myometrium) |
| Main symptoms | Pelvic pain, painful periods, infertility, pain during sex | Very heavy periods, painful cramps, enlarged/tender uterus |
| Effect on fertility | Often associated with infertility due to adhesions and cysts | Less directly linked to infertility, but may still cause complications |
| Diagnosis | Laparoscopy (gold standard) | Often via ultrasound or MRI; sometimes confirmed after hysterectomy |
| Treatment | Hormones, pain relief, surgery; hysterectomy not required | Hormones, pain relief, hysterectomy in severe cases |
| Feature | Endometriosis | Fibroids |
| What it is | Tissue similar to uterine lining growing outside the uterus | Noncancerous growths made of muscle and fibrous tissue inside the uterus |
| Main symptoms | Pelvic pain, painful periods, infertility, heavy/irregular bleeding | Heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, urinary frequency, bloating, anemia |
| Impact on fertility | Can cause scarring, blocked tubes, ovarian cysts | May affect implantation or pregnancy if uterine cavity is distorted |
| Diagnosis | Laparoscopy, imaging (ultrasound/MRI) | Ultrasound or MRI, often seen on exam |
| Treatment | Hormonal therapy, surgery, excision; hysterectomy not required | Medications, minimally invasive procedures, myomectomy, or hysterectomy |
Both conditions can coexist, complicating symptoms and treatment. A specialist can help identify which condition (or both) is contributing.
If untreated or severe, it can lead to several complications:
Treatment aims to reduce pain, slow progression, and improve fertility:
Natural Prevention & Symptom Support
While it can’t be cured naturally, some lifestyle changes may help manage symptoms:
Endometriosis Excision Surgery
Excision surgery is considered the most effective surgical treatment for endometriosis. Unlike ablation (which burns surface lesions), excision involves cutting out the endometriosis tissue entirely, including lesions hidden beneath the surface.
Benefits include:
However, this is a specialized surgery that should ideally be performed by a gynecologist, as the condition can affect multiple organs. Recovery varies but usually allows patients to return to normal activities within a few weeks. While excision is not a cure, it offers many patients significant and long-lasting relief.
Endometriosis is a complex and often painful condition—but understanding its nature empowers you to seek better outcomes. From a clear understanding of symptoms and stages to combining medical care with natural self-care strategies, you can take meaningful steps toward relief and improved quality of life.
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