Endometriosis and pelvic pain
Symptoms, assessment, options and preparation for your visit.
Illustrative imageEndometriosis involves tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the uterus. Period pain, pelvic pain and difficulty becoming pregnant can occur; not all pelvic pain is endometriosis.
Symptoms and starting the conversation
When symptoms started, how often they recur and their effect on everyday life matter. The examples below are topics you can discuss; they do not establish a diagnosis on their own.
- Painful periods
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Symptoms relating to sex, bowel function or fertility
How is assessment approached?
Assessment considers the relationship to the cycle, bowel and bladder symptoms and fertility plans. Imaging and further assessment are discussed according to the history and findings.
Which options are discussed?
Pain management, hormonal options or surgery may address different goals. Treatment is chosen alongside pregnancy wishes; no single method produces the same outcome for everyone.
Risks, limitations and follow-up
No method is assumed to suit everyone. If medication or a procedure is considered, assessment includes health history, possible pregnancy and current medication. Discuss potential side effects, alternatives and follow-up. Worsening or new symptoms are reasons to review the plan.
Preparing for your visit
Note when symptoms started, their triggers and their effect on your life. Bring available examination or operation reports and a medication list. Prepare questions about options, the purpose of tests, benefits and risks. Do not enter health records into appointment or contact forms.
Normal imaging does not always exclude endometriosis
The relationship to periods, bowel and bladder function and sex guides assessment. Normal ultrasound or MRI does not exclude every form of endometriosis. Diagnosis and initial management do not always have to start with surgery.
Pain relief and fertility goals may require different strategies. Hormonal treatment and surgery do not follow one sequence for everyone. Bowel, bladder or ovarian involvement may need planning with an appropriately experienced team.
Frequently asked questions
Can I diagnose myself using this page?
No. Similar symptoms may have different causes. This information helps you prepare for consultation; individual diagnosis and care require assessment.
Make your plan clear.
- Note when symptoms began and how often they recur.
- Ask the purpose of any investigation and how the result changes the plan.
- Clarify how results will be communicated and when follow-up is due.
Follow-up, care and return to everyday activities depend on assessment and the approach chosen. Before leaving, clarify the next step and how to contact the clinic.
Prepare your own list.
Select topics, write your notes in the fields below and download your personal preparation list as a PDF.
Your notes stay on this page; they are not sent to the clinic or saved. They are cleared when you close the page. The PDF may contain personal information; keep it on your own device.