Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of your uterus grows in other parts of your body; the tissue outside your uterus can become inflamed and create adhesions, cysts or scar tissue.

Most people with endometriosis experience pelvic pain which can worsen during their periods. Pain from endometriosis is often more severe and longer lasting than period pain. Sometimes, people with endometriosis feel pain in their abdomens and lower backs as well.

Additional symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Gastrointestinal issues like bloating, constipation or diarrhea
• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Infertility (difficulty becoming pregnant)
• Pain during sex
• Pain during urination or bowel movements

Diagnosing endometriosis is difficult. There is no one standard test to identify the condition. Seeking care from specialists with extra training in endometriosis can help you get a diagnosis sooner.

Diagnosis starts with a discussion about your symptoms. Your provider may also recommend a pelvic exam.

MRI

Although there is no perfect imaging test for endometriosis, an MRI can be helpful, especially in severe cases. MRI technology shows us detailed pictures of your uterus, ovaries, bladder, bowel and surrounding spaces. Our imaging specialists have experience in accurately identifying endometriosis.

Laparoscopy

Sometimes, the only way to diagnose endometriosis is through minimally invasive laparoscopy. A laparoscopy is a procedure to look inside your abdomen. Our gynecologic surgeon makes a small incision in your abdomen and uses a thin tool with a camera and light (laparoscope) to look inside and around your uterus. They check for endometriosis tissue growing outside your uterus and will excise (remove) it during the same procedure.

Many people aren’t diagnosed with endometriosis until they seek infertility treatment. Often, surgery to treat endometriosis (with or without assisted reproductive technology) can help you get pregnant. Our team includes reproductive medicine and fertility specialists who work with you to achieve your pregnancy goals.

Each person with endometriosis experiences the condition differently. Our team of specialists will create an individualized treatment plan for you based on your symptoms and health goals (like becoming pregnant). At Cedars‑Sinai, you receive comprehensive care from experts across many specialties, including:

• Gastroenterology
• Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery
• Obstetrics and gynecology
• Pain management
• Physical therapy
• Reproductive endocrinology and infertility
• Urology

Treatment options may include:

Pain medication

Some people may manage endometriosis symptoms with over‑the-counter pain relievers. Your provider may recommend taking pain medicines along with other treatment options.

Hormone therapy

Hormone treatments like birth control pills and intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help manage symptoms such as heavy or painful periods. Your symptoms may return if you stop hormone treatment.

Pelvic floor physical therapy

A pelvic floor physical therapist can help you learn to strengthen or relax your pelvic floor muscles. These techniques may help you manage the painful symptoms of endometriosis.

Laparoscopic surgery

During laparoscopic surgery, our surgeon removes endometriosis tissue through a small incision. There are many benefits of laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis. Surgery can improve:

• Fertility potential
• Quality of life
• Sexual health and intimate relationships

Our renowned multidisciplinary endometriosis team includes fellows in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) who perform over 1,000 procedures per year. They have specialty training to identify, treat and remove endometriosis. They are skilled in removing the tissue from other organs to relieve your painful symptoms.

Fertility treatment

In some cases, people with endometriosis benefit from fertility treatments. If you have difficulty conceiving, we may refer you to a Cedars‑Sinai fertility specialist who can help find the right treatment for you.

If you are diagnosed with endometriosis, you’ll have a lot of information to absorb and a lot of decisions to make about your treatment. In addition to clinical and surgical treatments, Cedars‑Sinai offers multiple resources to help you manage endometriosis, including:

• Support groups: Our free endometriosis peer support network connects you with others navigating the condition. We also offer professionally‑facilitated support(Opens in a new tab) (Opens in a new tab)options(Opens in a new tab) for a small fee.
• Virtual second opinions: It’s common for endometriosis to be dismissed, misunderstood or misdiagnosed. If you have had difficulty getting clear answers about your symptoms, you may benefit from a second opinion. At Cedars‑Sinai, we offer virtual second opinions for endometriosis, connecting you with an expert provider from the comfort of your home.