Endometriosis: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see

For endometriosis you can first see: Obstetrics & Gynecology. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.

Common symptoms: severe period pain that stops daily life; pelvic pain outside periods; deep pain during sex; painful bowel movements or urination during periods; difficulty getting pregnant; tiredness. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.

The most common causes: some menstrual blood flowing back through the tubes into the abdomen (the most accepted theory); inherited tendency; differences in the immune system; early periods and short cycles. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.

Endometriosis is a long-term condition; symptoms are controlled with hormone treatment, pain management and, if needed, keyhole surgery. It usually settles after the menopause.

It is suspected from symptoms, a gynaecological examination and ultrasound. A definite diagnosis is made by seeing the tissue during laparoscopy (keyhole surgery); however, not every patient needs this.

They are not cancer; but they can cause pain and infertility. Monitoring or treatment is decided by their size and the symptoms.

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is there sudden, very severe pelvic pain, fever or fainting?” “Is the pregnancy test positive with pelvic pain?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”

See a doctor: period pain stops you going to school or work or doing daily tasks; there is pain during sex; you have not been able to get pregnant for 1 year (6 months if over 35).