Specialist diagnosis and management of endometriosis, with personalised treatment plans tailored to your symptoms and future fertility goals.
Endometriosis is a debilitating condition caused by the growth of cells from the womb lining (endometrium) on structures outside the womb. These cells go through the same monthly changes as the womb lining itself, resulting in bleeding into the body cavity and inflammation that causes pain. There is currently no cure, but a range of treatments are available to manage symptoms effectively.
Pelvic pain or painful periods
Pain during sex
Heavy or prolonged bleeding
Extreme tiredness
Painful bowel movements or urination
Difficulty conceiving
Endometriosis is initially assessed using ultrasound scan or MRI. The only way to confirm the diagnosis is through laparoscopy — a minimally invasive procedure in which a narrow camera is passed into the abdomen to examine the pelvic organs directly.
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the extent of the condition, and future fertility plans:
Pain relief medication
Hormonal medicines to reduce oestrogen and slow tissue growth
Mirena IUS to help control symptoms
Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery to remove endometrial tissue
Joint surgical procedures where bowel involvement is present
Fertility treatment for women wishing to conceive
At London Pregnancy Care and Gynaecology, care is delivered by experienced consultant specialists with a focus on personalised treamtent, continuity of care, and clear, supportive guidance.
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside it — most commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the lining of the pelvis. It can also affect the bladder or bowel, and in rare cases the lungs or heart. It most commonly affects women aged between 25 and 49, though it can occur in younger women too.
Symptoms vary considerably. Some women experience no symptoms at all, while others have significant pelvic pain, heavy or painful periods, pain during sex, ovulation pain, backache, painful bowel movements, and extreme tiredness. Endometriosis affecting the bowel or bladder can cause bleeding in the stool or urine during a period.
Repeated bleeding from endometrial deposits can cause scar tissue (adhesions) to form around the pelvic organs, which can lead to infertility. Ovarian cysts (endometriomas) can develop and may rupture, causing acute pain. In some cases endometriosis can affect bowel function, and there is a small increased risk of certain ovarian cancers.
Diagnosis begins with a clinical assessment, ultrasound scan, or MRI. However, a definitive diagnosis requires a laparoscopy — a day-case procedure performed under general anaesthetic, which allows direct examination of the pelvic organs. Where mild or moderate endometriosis is found, it can often be treated at the same time.
Hormonal medicines — including GnRH analogues, progestogens, and the combined oral contraceptive pill — can reduce oestrogen levels and slow the growth of endometrial tissue. The Mirena IUS can also be effective in managing symptoms. These treatments do not cure endometriosis, and symptoms typically return once treatment stops.
Surgery may be recommended when pain does not respond to medical treatment, when fertility is affected, when a large ovarian cyst is present, or when endometriosis is interfering with the normal function of the bowel or other organs. Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred approach, and where bowel involvement is present, the procedure is performed jointly with a bowel surgeon.
Yes. Adhesions around the fallopian tubes and ovaries can reduce fertility. Surgery to remove endometrial tissue can help, and some women may benefit from fertility treatment. Your consultant will discuss the most appropriate approach based on your individual circumstances.
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