Endometriosis: What You Need to Know

Clear, supportive information to help you understand your body and your options

Endometriosis is a common longterm condition that affects many women and people assigned female at birth. While it can have a real impact on everyday life, understanding what it is and how it may affect you is an important first step towards getting the right support.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb (uterus) is found elsewhere in the body. These cells respond to hormones in the menstrual cycle in the same way as the womb lining does. Because this tissue is outside the womb, it can sometimes lead to inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue.

Endometriosis is most commonly found within the pelvis, including:

• The lining of the pelvis

• The ovaries

• Nearby organs such as the bowel or bladder

Less commonly, it can also appear outside the pelvic area, for example in the chest or within surgical scars.

Endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth, from puberty to menopause. In the UK, over 1.5 million people are living with the condition, across all races and ethnicities.

Types of endometriosis

There are several types of endometriosis. These are defined by where the tissue is located and how deeply it has grown. Some people have more than one type.

Peritoneal (superficial) endometriosisThis type is found on the lining of the pelvis and is the most common form.

Ovarian endometriosis (endometriomas)This occurs when cysts caused by endometriosis develop in the ovaries.

Deep endometriosisThis type grows deeper into tissues and can affect organs such as the bowel, bladder, or the area between the vagina and rectum.

Extrapelvic endometriosisThis is when endometriosis is found outside the pelvis, such as in the chest or within caesarean scars.

A related condition: adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a separate but related condition where tissue similar to the womb lining grows within the muscle wall of the womb itself. Like endometriosis, it responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and can cause pain and heavy bleeding.

Around 10% of women and people assigned female at birth are affected. It’s quite common for someone to have both adenomyosis and endometriosis.

Common symptoms

Endometriosis can affect people very differently. Some experience significant symptoms, while others may have few or none at all. Symptoms don’t always match the amount or location of endometriosis found in the body.

Common symptoms include:

• Pelvic pain

• Painful periods that interfere with daily activities

• Heavy menstrual bleeding

• Pain during or after sex

• Pain when opening the bowels or passing urine

• Fatigue, often alongside other symptoms

Many people also notice bloating around the time of their period. While bloating is common, ongoing or persistent bloating should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Endometriosis can also affect fertility, although up to 70% of people with the condition are able to get pregnant naturally.

When to seek healthcare support

If you recognise some of these symptoms, you are not overreacting—and you are not alone. It may be helpful to speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• Period pain is affecting your work, education, or daily life

• Pain is persistent or worsening over time

• You experience pain during sex, bowel movements, or urination

• Your periods are very heavy or last longer than expected

• You feel exhausted alongside ongoing pain

• You are concerned about fertility or planning a pregnancy

Endometriosis symptoms can overlap with other conditions, so seeking medical advice can help ensure you receive the right assessment and support.

Living with endometriosis

Living with endometriosis can affect both physical and emotional wellbeing. Ongoing pain, uncertainty, or delayed diagnosis can be challenging, and many people report feeling unheard or dismissed. Support, understanding, and appropriate treatment can make a meaningful difference.

Managing endometriosis

There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but there are effective ways to manage symptoms. Treatment is individual and may include:

• Pain management

• Hormonal treatments

• Surgery in some cases

It can take time to find what works best for you, and responses to treatment vary. Continuing open conversations with your healthcare provider is an important part of care.

Reassurance and key points

• Endometriosis symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions

• Endometriosis is not contagious

• Endometriosis is not a sexually transmitted infection

• Endometriosis is not cancer

With the right information and support, many people find ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Frequently asked questions about endometriosis

Will endometriosis ruin my life?

No. While endometriosis can be challenging at times, it does not mean your life is over or defined by illness. Many people with endometriosis continue to work, build relationships, have families, and do the things that matter to them.Symptoms can change over time, and with the right support and treatment, many people find ways to manage them and feel more in control of their health.

Will my symptoms always get worse?

Not necessarily. Endometriosis does not follow the same pattern for everyone. Some people find their symptoms remain stable, improve with treatment, or change at different stages of life.Finding what works for you may take time, but worsening symptoms are not inevitable, and help is available if things change.

Can you have endometriosis even if your symptoms are mild?

Yes. Some people have endometriosis with only mild or occasional symptoms, while others experience more persistent pain. The amount of endometriosis found in the body does not always reflect how someone feels day to day.Your experience is valid, whatever your symptoms look like.

Is it normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed?

Yes — and you’re not alone. Many people feel worried, frustrated, or emotionally drained, especially if it has taken time to be taken seriously. These feelings are understandable.Support can include medical care, trusted conversations, practical tools, and learning more about your body at your own pace.

Can I still have children if I have endometriosis?

Many people with endometriosis are able to get pregnant naturally. For others, it may take longer or require support — but having endometriosis does not automatically mean infertility.If fertility is something you’re thinking about, a healthcare professional can talk through options and provide guidance that suits your situation.

Is endometriosis something I just have to “put up with”?

No. Pain that affects your daily life deserves attention. You are entitled to ask questions, explore treatment options, and be involved in decisions about your care.Managing endometriosis is not about pushing through — it’s about finding approaches that support your wellbeing.

What if I don’t feel listened to?

Feeling unheard can be one of the hardest parts of living with endometriosis. If this happens, it may help to:

• Keep a simple symptom record

• Ask for a followup appointment

• Bring someone you trust to appointments

• Seek a second opinion if needed

You deserve to be taken seriously.

Where can I find reliable support and information?

Trusted healthcare professionals, recognised charities, and evidencebased education hubs can all play a role. Learning from reliable sources can help you feel more confident and less alone as you navigate your health.

A final reassurance

Endometriosis is a part of your health — not your whole story.With information, support, and care that respects your choices, many people continue to live full, meaningful lives.

Link to What is endometriosis? | Endometriosis UK