Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a relatively common condition that may be associated with pelvic pain and difficulty conceiving.

Overview

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What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a relatively common condition that may be associated with pelvic pain and difficulty conceiving. The lining of the womb is called the endometrium and endometriosis is defined as the presence of tissue outside the womb which is very similar to endometrium. The causes of endometriosis are poorly understood but it appears that this abnormal distribution of endometrium-like tissue causes inflammation and scarring which may then lead to symptoms. The course of endometriosis is difficult to predict as it may spontaneously regress in up to a third although in 50% the disease is progressive – worsening with time.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis

The main symptoms of endometriosis are:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Painful periods
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Subfertility (difficulty or delay in conceiving)
  • Bowel pain and rectal bleeding during menstruation
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Heavy periods
  • Pain or bleeding when passing urine

Tests for endometriosis

Any woman with symptoms suggestive of endometriosis will be asked a comprehensive series of questions by their consultant and an examination will also be performed. Usually a pelvic ultrasound would be organised to help identify other causes of pelvic pain and in particular to look for endometriosis in the ovaries where it can cause cysts called endometriomas. In some cases (particularly where severe disease is suspected) a more detailed MRI scan may be helpful.

Currently the only sure way to make a definite diagnosis is to perform a laparoscopy (which is a surgical procedure using a small telescope which is placed through the belly button). This approach not only allows accurate assessment of the pelvis but also treatment at the same time. There are however risks with any surgical intervention and it may not be appropriate in all patients.

Treatment for endometriosis

As endometriosis is driven by the cyclical hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle all medical treatments involve hormonal manipulation to some degree.


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Condition overview
Endometriosis

Symptoms

Pelvic pain, painful periods, heavy periods…

Tests

Ultrasound, MRI

Treatment

Coil, contraceptive pill

Endometriosis Specialists

We have brought together a group of leading gynaecologists and breast specialists to form our Women’s Health team. With over 200 years of combined experience, these expert clinicians are the best in their field and are all focused on delivering the very best patient care.

Mr Tariq Miskry

Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist

Specialist expertise: Fibroids, Laparoscopic Procedures (Keyhole Surgery), Endometriosis, Ovarian Cysts, Hysteroscopic Surgery for Heavy Periods, Gynaecology, Obstetrics, Endometriosis Surgery, Endometrial Ablation, Pelvic Pain, Abnormal Periods, Endometriosis Fibroids, Hysteroscopic Surgery.

Ms Eleni Mavrides

Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist

Specialist expertise: Pelvic Disorders (Including Gynaecological Pain), Endometriosis, Fibroids, Laparoscopic Procedures (Keyhole Surgery), Pelvic Ultrasound, Gynaecology, Obstetrics, Gynaecological Surgery, Gynaecological Ultrasound, Abnormal Periods, Pelvic Pain, Ovarian Screening.

Mr Emeka Okaro

Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, and Reproductive Medicine Specialist

Specialist expertise: Menstrual Disorders, Pelvic Pain, Endometriosis, Gynaecological Ultrasound, Gynaecology, Obstetrics, Early Pregnancy Care, Early Pregnancy Assessment, Colposcopy, Laparoscopic Procedures (Keyhole Surgery), Ovarian Cysts, Abnormal Cervical Smears, Cervical Smear, Fibroids, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Menopause.

Mr Tom Holland

Consultant Gynaecologist

Specialist expertise: Emergency Gynaecology, Gynaecological Ultrasound, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Gynaecology, Early Pregnancy Assessment, Endometriosis, Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts.

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