EndometriosisEndometriosis is a chronic condition that can be very painful, affecting around 1 in 9 Australian women.1 On this page you’ll find information on what it is, and how to seek help from your doctor. 
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining inside the uterus) starts to grow outside the uterus. It can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs nearby. 

When hormone levels change during the menstrual cycle, the tissue responds to these changes and can cause inflammation, scarring, and severe pain. 
How common is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is estimated to affect about 1 in 9 women of reproductive age. If a close relative has endometriosis, you are around 7 to 10 times more likely to have endometriosis as someone without a family history.1,2
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Symptoms of endometriosis can be different in each individual, and vary in intensity.

Common symptoms include:
  • Pelvic pain and cramping, especially during menstruation
  • Pain during or after sex
  • Pain when using the toilet
  • Heavy periods or bleeding between periods
  • Tiredness
  • Infertility or difficulty conceiving
  • Other symptoms such as bloating, nausea, or other gastrointestinal (tummy) issues
How is endometriosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Medical history: Your doctor will start by taking a detailed medical history to understand more about your symptoms and how they affect your life.
Imaging (scans): Your doctor may order you an ultrasound or MRI scan of your pelvis.
Physical examination (with your consent): This may involve an internal examination using a tool called a speculum to help look at your vagina and cervix. Your doctor may also place one or two gloved fingers inside your vagina while pressing gently on the outside of your abdomen to be able to feel your pelvic organs. If you do not feel comfortable about having an internal examination, let your doctor know.
Laparoscopy: Your doctor may refer you for a minimally invasive surgical procedure called laparoscopy. During this procedure, small incisions are made in your abdomen that allow the surgeon to see inside using a small camera. They may take small samples of tissue to check. 
Medical history: 
Your doctor will start by taking a detailed medical history to understand more about your symptoms and how they affect your life.
Imaging (scans): 
Your doctor may order you an ultrasound or MRI scan of your pelvis.

Physical examination (with your consent): 
This may involve an internal examination using a tool called a speculum to help look at your vagina and cervix. Your doctor may also place one or two gloved fingers inside your vagina while pressing gently on the outside of your abdomen to feel your pelvic organs. If you do not feel comfortable about having an internal examination, let your doctor know.
Laparoscopy: 
Your doctor may refer you for a minimally invasive surgical procedure called laparoscopy. During this procedure, small incisions are made in your abdomen that allow the surgeon to see inside using a small camera. They may take small samples of tissue to check. 
What are the treatment options?
While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, there are treatment options that can help manage your symptoms and improve quality of life.

Speak to your doctor to discuss what might be right for you. Potential treatments include the below.

Pain management
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), with or without paracetamol, can help with pain. If this is not adequate, other pain relieving medicines or forms of management may be considered.

Hormonal treatment
These therapies aim to suppress menstruation and prevent endometriosis from developing or becoming worse over time. Options include contraceptive pills, injection, implant or intrauterine device (IUD).

Surgery
Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove endometrial tissue, combine surgery with medicines to increase the benefits, or in very severe cases, remove the uterus.

Fertility treatment
Around 1 in 3 women with endometriosis have trouble conceiving.1 Ask your doctor for a referral if you are experiencing fertility issues.
Other treatments
Regular exercise, pelvic physiotherapy, stress management and mindfulness or psychological therapy may help with pain and quality of life.
Speaking with your doctor and advocating for yourself

Unfortunately, the average time to get an endometriosis diagnosis is about 7 years.2 This is because people can have different symptoms, and some symptoms can change over time. Symptoms like period pain are also sometimes accepted as ‘normal’. 

Therefore, it’s important to:

Prepare for appointments
Keep a detailed symptom diary, noting the type, intensity, and duration of your symptoms. 
Ask questions
Don't hesitate to ask for clarification on medical terms or treatment options. It's your right to fully understand your diagnosis and care plan.
Explore all options
Discuss the range of treatments available, their potential side effects, and what you can realistically expect in terms of relief and lifestyle impact.
Trust your instincts
Your doctor will listen to your concerns and take your symptoms seriously. If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t be afraid to speak with another doctor. You are your own best advocate, and ensuring your voice is heard is essential. 
Getting the most from your appointment
Prepare for appointments
Keep a detailed symptom diary, noting the type, intensity, and duration of your symptoms. 
Ask questions
Don't hesitate to ask for clarification on medical terms or treatment options. It's your right to fully understand your diagnosis and care plan.
Explore all options
Discuss the range of treatments available, their potential side effects, and what you can realistically expect in terms of relief and lifestyle impact.

Trust your instincts
You are your own best advocate, and ensuring your voice is heard is essential. If you don't feel comfortable with a healthcare provider, don't be afraid to consult another. You should feel supported, understand recommended treatments and implications for the future, and have a sense of partnership in managing endometriosis together.
Getting the most from your appointment
Below are some ideas for questions you might want to ask your doctor:
What are tests do I need?
How long will it take to have the tests and to get the results?
How does the treatment work?
What are the pros and cons of having this treatment?
How might the treatment help me?
What effect should it have on my symptoms and everyday life?
How long should it take before I notice a difference?
What are the most common side effects associated with this treatment?
Will the endometriosis come back after this treatment?
What are my other options?
 What tests do I need? How long will it take to have the tests and to get the results? How does the treatment work? What are the pros and cons of having this treatment? How might the treatment help me? What effect should it have on my symptoms and everyday life? How long should it take before I notice a difference? What are the most common side effects associated with this treatment? Will the endometriosis come back after this treatment? What are my other options?
Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms that bother you
References:
  1. HealthDirect. Endometriosis. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/endometriosis. Accessed July 2025.
  2. Jean Hailes. Endometriosis fact sheet. Available at: https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/resources/endometriosis-fact-sheet. Accessed July 2025.
This site is intended only for Australian residents. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare professional.
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