Frequently asked questions
Last updated: 10 October 2026
Short answers to the questions people ask most about endometriosis. The answers are general information, not personal medical advice.
The basics
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is found outside the uterus, most often inside the pelvis. It can cause pain and difficulty getting pregnant, although not everyone has symptoms.
How common is endometriosis?
The exact figure is unknown. The 2022 ESHRE guideline gives an estimate of 2% to 10% of the general female population and states that at least 190 million people of reproductive age are affected worldwide.
What causes endometriosis?
The exact cause is unknown. Theories such as retrograde (backward) menstruation and family predisposition are discussed, but no single theory explains every case.
What is a chocolate cyst?
A chocolate cyst is the popular name for an endometriosis cyst on the ovary (endometrioma). It is named after the dark, thick fluid inside. Not everyone with endometriosis develops one.
Symptoms
Is period pain normal?
Mild, short-lived period discomfort is common. Pain that disrupts daily activities, school or work, or that painkillers do not relieve, should not be treated as normal and is worth discussing with a doctor.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
The most common symptoms are severe period pain, pelvic pain outside periods, pain during sex, bowel or urinary symptoms around periods, and difficulty getting pregnant. Symptoms vary a great deal from person to person.
Diagnosis
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
A doctor first listens to your history and examines you. Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI is usually requested next. Normal imaging does not rule out endometriosis, so the doctor may then discuss laparoscopy.
Why does diagnosis take years?
The 2022 ESHRE guideline reports an average of 8 to 12 years between the first symptoms and a reliable diagnosis. Pain being treated as normal, symptoms resembling other problems and imaging sometimes looking normal all contribute.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if period pain affects your daily life, painkillers are not enough, you have deep pain during sex, bowel or urinary symptoms around your period, or difficulty getting pregnant.
Treatment
Does endometriosis go away completely?
There is no known cure. Medication and surgery aim to reduce pain and symptoms. The disease or its symptoms can return after treatment, so a long-term plan with your doctor matters.
What treatment options exist?
The 2022 ESHRE guideline lists painkillers, hormone treatments and surgery as options for pain. Which one suits you is decided with your doctor, based on your symptoms, your wish to conceive and your preferences.
Life, pregnancy and mental health
Can I get pregnant with endometriosis?
Yes, many people do. Endometriosis can lower the chance of pregnancy; according to the 2022 ESHRE guideline it may be found in up to 50% of infertile women. If you want to conceive, make an individual plan with a doctor.
Does endometriosis affect mental health?
Chronic pain, uncertainty and not being taken seriously can be emotionally exhausting. Guidelines recommend treating psychological support as part of care. Asking for support is not a weakness.
Related pages
Sources
- ESHRE Endometriosis Guideline 2022 · European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, 2022
- Endometriosis: diagnosis and management (NG73) · NICE, 2017