Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining is found outside the uterine cavity. This tissue may be associated with inflammation and pain. Teenagers can have endometriosis too. Your age or comparison with friends' period pain cannot determine how much pain you have.

Tell a healthcare professional about missing school, disrupted sleep and activities you have to give up. It is especially important to discuss recurring pain that has not been adequately relieved. A doctor will also consider other possible causes. You do not need to be certain that you have a specific condition before booking an appointment.

Some people have pain in the abdomen or pelvis outside their periods as well. Others experience pain when using the toilet or during sex.

Some people experience heavy bleeding, exhaustion, nausea or bowel and urinary symptoms.

Assessment begins with your medical history and a discussion of which investigations are suitable. Ultrasound and sometimes other tests can provide useful information, but a normal ultrasound does not rule out endometriosis. Investigations are selected with your age and circumstances in mind.

Treatment can begin on the basis of clinical suspicion. Pain relief and hormonal treatment are possible options, and some people need assessment by a gynaecologist or specialist service. Surgery is one possible part of investigation or treatment, rather than a mandatory first step for everyone. Agree on further follow-up if symptoms continue.

If pain or other symptoms affect your everyday life, you should talk to a doctor. You can have symptoms assessed while you are still unsure what causes them.