Symptoms

May include bladder or bowel related complaints such as diarrhea, painful cramping and painful intercourse. In symptomatic women, over 70% complain of pelvic pain, painful periods and heavy menstrual bleeding. Some women may present with no symptoms but may instead present with other conditions such as infertility.

Testing

No blood test currently can diagnose endometriosis and it is generally best diagnosed by a surgical procedure called a laparoscopy where the abdominal and pelvic organs are evaluated by a small telescope inserted into the bellybutton while under anesthesia. The endometriosis can also be treated at the same time thereby improving symptoms and quality of life.

Treatment

The mainstay of treatment is surgery along with hormonal medical management in some patients. The goal is to improve symptoms and or improve fertility based on the patient's treatment goals.

• Medication May include hormonal treatment such as birth control pills or medication used to treat the pain and cramping associated with periods.
• Surgery Surgical options are based on the patient's long-term goals and may be targeted to treat fertility related concerns versus pain related concerns.