Can endometriosis be cured?

There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but symptoms can be effectively managed with medication, hormone therapy, and surgery. Many women find significant relief through a combination of treatments.

Does endometriosis always cause infertility?

While endometriosis is found in 30–50% of women with infertility, not everyone with the condition will have difficulty conceiving. Many women become pregnant naturally or with fertility treatments like IVF.

Can endometriosis come back after surgery?

Yes, endometriosis can recur after surgical removal, with recurrence rates of about 20–40% within five years. Ongoing hormonal therapy after surgery can help reduce the risk.

ReproductiveICD-10: N80Affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide

Endometriosis

Also known as: Endo

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissues. It causes inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation, and is a leading cause of infertility in women. Diagnosis is often delayed by an average of 7 to 10 years.

Symptoms

Severe menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)

Chronic pelvic pain between periods

Pain during or after sexual intercourse

Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding

Pain with bowel movements or urination during menstruation

Bloating, nausea, or diarrhea during periods

Fatigue and exhaustion

Difficulty getting pregnant

Causes

Retrograde menstruation (menstrual blood flowing backward into the pelvis)
Immune system dysfunction failing to clear misplaced tissue
Hormonal factors, particularly estrogen dominance
Genetic predisposition
Possible coelomic metaplasia

Risk Factors

Family history of endometriosis
Early onset of menstruation (before age 11)
Short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
Never having given birth
Low body mass index

Diagnosis

Pelvic examination to check for cysts or scars
Transvaginal ultrasound to visualize endometriomas
MRI for detailed imaging of deep endometriosis
Laparoscopy (surgical visualization) for definitive diagnosis

Treatment

NSAIDs for pain management
Hormonal therapies including birth control pills and GnRH agonists
Progestin therapy (IUD, injections, or pills)
Laparoscopic excision surgery to remove endometrial implants
Hysterectomy with oophorectomy in severe, refractory cases
Fertility treatments such as IVF for those trying to conceive

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent endometriosis
Hormonal contraceptives may reduce the risk of progression
Regular exercise and anti-inflammatory diet may help manage symptoms

When to See a Doctor

Menstrual pain is severe enough to interfere with daily activities
You are having difficulty getting pregnant
You experience chronic pelvic pain outside your menstrual period
Pain during intercourse is persistent or worsening

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Infertility

Reproductive

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Digestive

Uterine Fibroids

Reproductive

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