The Prevalence of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and pain, primarily in the pelvis and surrounding organs. This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins to grow in other parts of the body, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, and other areas within the pelvis. According to the World Health Organization, "Endometriosis affects an estimated 10% (190 million) of reproductive-age women worldwide." It is crucial to raise awareness of this condition, as it can lead to many complications, including severe pain in the lower abdominal region, heavy menstrual bleeding, anxiety, fatigue, and poor sexual health. Endometriosis is categorised into stages 1 to 4, with stage 4 being the most severe. These stages describe the extent of the condition within the body.

Currently, no exact cause has been identified; however, recent research suggests that immune dysregulation may play a role, as people with endometriosis often have immune-related conditions.

Signs and Symptoms

Endometriosis can cause the following symptoms:

• Pain before, during, or after menstruation

• Pain during ovulation

• Pain in the bowel during menstruation

• Pain when passing urine

• Pain during or after sexual intercourse

• Pain in the lower back

• Diarrhea or constipation (particularly during menstruation)

• Abdominal bloating (particularly during menstruation)

• Heavy or irregular bleeding

• Fatigue

• Infertility

Endometriosis is often diagnosed after a doctor suspects it based on a patient's symptoms and a physical pelvic examination. An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images, provides clinicians with a clear view of the uterus, while an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can produce more detailed images and help identify deep endometriosis. If the results of both tests remain inconclusive and the patient continues to experience severe symptoms, a laparoscopy may be recommended. During this procedure, a laparoscope (a thin, tube-like instrument with a camera) is inserted through a small incision near the belly button to examine the pelvic organs for abnormalities associated with endometriosis.

There are three main approaches to managing the symptoms of endometriosis: hormone therapy, surgery, and supportive therapies. Common hormone treatments include the contraceptive pill to regulate hormones and menstrual cycles, and progestogens, which may be taken as an implant, tablet, or injection to reduce pain and bleeding. However, these hormonal treatments can have side effects, including mood swings, nausea, and weight gain. Surgery may be used to remove excess tissue or improve the function of pelvic organs. In some severe cases, the uterus may also be removed (a hysterectomy). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help relieve pain, and pelvic floor physiotherapy may also be beneficial. However, there is currently no cure for endometriosis, so these treatments are used to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

It is crucial to raise awareness of endometriosis, as in many countries the public, family members, and even health professionals are unaware that chronic pelvic pain is not normal. The stigma surrounding women's health can negatively affect the mental health and well-being of people living with endometriosis. Greater awareness can encourage earlier diagnosis and help patients seek medical guidance sooner. It can also support increased research funding and workplace accommodations, such as those promoted through Safe Work Australia's 2018 National Action Plan on Endometriosis.

Reference List

ASRM Practice Committee (2012). Endometriosis and infertility: A committee opinion (2012). [online] ASRM. Available at: https://www.asrm.org/practice-guidance/practice-committee-documents/endometriosis-and-infertility-a-committee-opinion-2012/ [Accessed 4 Aug. 2026].

Endometriosis Australia (2025). Management and treatment. [online] Endometriosis Australia. Available at: https://endometriosisaustralia.org/management-and-treatment/ [Accessed 4 Aug. 2026].

Endometriosis.org (2026). Infertility. [online] Endometriosis.org. Available at: https://endometriosis.org/endometriosis/infertility/ [Accessed 4 Aug. 2026].

Healthdirect Australia (2019). Endometriosis. [online] Healthdirect Australia. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/endometriosis [Accessed 4 Aug. 2026].

Márki, G., Vásárhelyi, D., Rigó, A., Kaló, Z., Ács, N. and Bokor, A. (2022). Challenges of and possible solutions for living with endometriosis: A qualitative study. BMC Women's Health, 22(1). doi:10.1186/s12905-022-01603-6.

Sabadin, A. (2019). Supporting workers with endometriosis in the workplace. [online] Safe Work Australia. Available at: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/supporting-workers-endometriosis-workplace [Accessed 4 Aug. 2026].

Endometriosis Australia (n.d.). Where can it grow? [online PDF] Available at: https://endometriosisaustralia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/English-Factsheet-What-is-Endo.pdf [Accessed 4 Aug. 2026].

World Health Organization (2023). Endometriosis. [online] World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis [Accessed 4 Aug. 2026].