
• Endometriosis is the abnormal growth of cells (endometrial cells) outside of the uterus. Endometriosis is most commonly found on other organs of the pelvis.
• The exact cause of endometriosis has not been identified.
• Endometriosis is more common in women experiencing infertility than infertile women, but the condition does not necessarily cause infertility.
• Most women with endometriosis have no symptoms. However, when women do experience signs and symptoms of endometriosis, they may include:
○ Pelvic pain that may worsen during menstruation
○ Painful intercourse
○ Painful bowel movements or urination
○ Infertility
• Pelvic pain during menstruation or ovulation can be a symptom of endometriosis, but may also occur in normal women.
• Endometriosis can be suspected based on the woman’s pattern of symptoms, and sometimes during a physical examination. But the definite diagnosis is usually confirmed by surgery, most commonly by laparoscopy.
Treatment of endometriosis includes medication and surgery for both pain relief and treatment of infertility if pregnancy is desired.