Endometriosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
By Dr. Neha Singhania • 2026-06-03
Endometriosis is one of the most under-recognised causes of period pain. On average, women wait years for a diagnosis, often being told the pain is normal. It is not. Understanding endometriosis helps you get the right care sooner.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus — on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the lining of the pelvis. This tissue responds to your monthly hormones, bleeding a little each cycle, which causes inflammation, scarring and pain.
Common symptoms
Not everyone has severe symptoms — some women discover it only during fertility evaluation.
Why it is often missed
Symptoms overlap with ordinary period cramps, IBS and other conditions, and there is no simple blood test. Many women normalise their pain. If period pain regularly stops you from work, school or sleep, that is a reason to be evaluated.
How it is diagnosed
Treatment options
Treatment depends on your symptoms and whether you want to conceive:
Endometriosis and fertility
Many women with endometriosis conceive naturally; others need help. Early evaluation matters, especially if you are trying to conceive, because treatment can improve your chances.
Painful periods are common — but they are not something you have to simply live with. A focused evaluation can find the cause and give you a real plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can endometriosis be cured?
There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can be controlled very well with medication, hormonal therapy and laparoscopic surgery. Many women become pain-free and conceive with the right treatment.
Can I get pregnant with endometriosis?
Yes. Many women with endometriosis conceive naturally. If conception is delayed, treatments ranging from surgery to IVF can significantly improve the chances, so early evaluation is worthwhile.
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Through history, pelvic examination and ultrasound (which shows ovarian chocolate cysts). Laparoscopy — a keyhole surgery — is the most definitive test and allows treatment at the same time.
What does endometriosis pain feel like?
It is typically severe period pain that may start before the period, along with pelvic pain at other times, pain during intercourse, and pain with bowel or bladder movements during periods.
Is endometriosis serious?
It is not cancer, but untreated endometriosis can worsen, cause chronic pain and affect fertility. With timely diagnosis and treatment, most women do very well.
Have questions? Talk to the doctor
Book an appointment with Dr. Neha Singhania for personalised advice.
