Endometriosis
Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the uterus – often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or surrounding pelvic organs. This tissue responds to the menstrual cycle, but has no way to leave the body, causing inflammation, pain, and sometimes scarring. It’s a leading cause of infertility and affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK.
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Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary, but often include:
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Severe period pain that doesn’t improve with typical pain relief
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Chronic pelvic or back pain, even outside of menstruation
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Pain during or after sex
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Heavy or irregular bleeding
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Fatigue, bloating, or bowel/bladder discomfort during periods
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Fertility issues – up to half of women with endometriosis may have trouble conceiving
What Causes It?
The exact cause isn’t known. Genetics, immune dysfunction, and retrograde menstruation are possible factors. Oestrogen is thought to fuel endometriosis, so hormonal changes can play a role. It’s an inflammatory condition, and symptoms often worsen over time if untreated.
Quick Facts, Big Impact
Prevalence in the UK
Endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK – that’s approximately 1.5 million women. It’s one of the most common gynaecological conditions and a major contributor to chronic pelvic pain and infertility.
Diagnosis Delays
On average, it takes around 8 years from first reporting symptoms to receiving a confirmed diagnosis in the UK. This delay is often due to the broad range of symptoms, which can mimic other conditions, and the need for specialist assessment, such as pelvic imaging or laparoscopy. Many women report their symptoms being dismissed or misunderstood in the early stages.
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Common Causes
The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but several theories exist. These include retrograde menstruation (where menstrual blood flows backwards into the pelvis), immune system issues, and genetic factors. Oestrogen appears to fuel the growth of endometrial tissue outside the womb. Endometriosis often runs in families.
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for endometriosis, several treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:
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Pain relief – often with anti-inflammatories
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Hormone-based therapies – such as the combined pill, hormonal IUD, or GnRH analogues, which reduce or stop menstruation
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Surgery – to remove or destroy endometrial tissue in more severe or treatment-resistant cases
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Fertility support – including IVF if conception is affected
Treatment is tailored to each woman’s symptoms, age, fertility goals and treatment preferences.
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