Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 people assigned female at birth worldwide. If you have been living with unexplained pelvic pain, irregular periods, or fertility questions without clear answers, you may be among the 10%.
Understanding endometriosis — its causes, its symptoms, and its relationship with fertility — could be the key that unlocks the next step, one filled with more answers than questions. Our team at The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (CARS) has elaborated on these points and more below.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and even the bladder or intestines.
Like the uterine lining, this misplaced tissue thickens and breaks down with each menstrual cycle, except it has nowhere to exit the body. Over time, this leads to inflammation, adhesions (scar tissue), and in some cases, ovarian cysts called endometriomas.
Both science and medicine continue to advance our understanding of this condition, and having clarity about what is happening inside your body is, in itself, a powerful starting point.
Pelvic pain is the most commonly reported symptom of endometriosis, often intensifying around your menstrual period. For many people, this pain goes well beyond typical cramping and can affect daily activities like work, school, or time with loved ones.
Other symptoms that may signal endometriosis include:
Symptoms such as bloating and painful bowel movements have caused many to assume that they are experiencing digestive issues rather than reproductive. For this reason, endometriosis can be misdiagnosed as other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Every experience with endometriosis is personal. Some people have intense symptoms; others have very few. Either way, your experience is valid and worth investigating with a specialist who takes you seriously. Listen to your body, pay attention to patterns, and when you feel ready, book a consultation.
Endometriosis and fertility are deeply intertwined. Research from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) shows that 30% to 50% of individuals experiencing infertility have endometriosis.*
The condition can influence your reproductive system in several interconnected ways, including:
Endometriosis is categorized across four stages, with Stage 1 being minimal and Stage 4 being severe. Higher stages, particularly those involving significant scarring and blocked tubes, tend to present greater fertility challenges. In these cases, IVF (in vitro fertilization) combined with surgical treatment has shown strong success rates.
Pregnancy is absolutely achievable across many stages, and with advances in both science and medicine, the options available to you are meaningful and real. You are an active participant in every decision, and a knowledgeable reproductive team makes all the difference.
A definitive diagnosis typically requires a laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure using a small camera to view and biopsy pelvic tissue.
Before that step, a reproductive specialist will review your symptoms, personal and family medical history, and may order imaging like an ultrasound or MRI. While imaging can identify larger cysts and signs of the condition, laparoscopy remains the gold standard for confirmation.
Laparoscopic surgery provides the clearest, most accurate view of what is going on inside your body and helps shape the most effective care plan for you specifically.
While there is no confirmation of endometriosis causes, leading theories include retrograde menstruation, genetics and family history, immune signaling differences, hormone-related factors, and environmental exposures.
Yes, endometriosis is a chronic condition, and symptoms can recur after surgical treatment. Timelines vary based on severity. Many specialists recommend pairing surgery with ongoing medical therapy to support long-term relief and protect your reproductive goals.
Absolutely, and many do. Fertility outcomes depend on several factors, including the stage of endometriosis, age, and overall reproductive health.
With the guidance of our skilled, experienced fertility team supported by advanced science and medicine, the path to pregnancy remains very much open. You deserve care that believes in your possibilities as strongly as you do.
Living with endometriosis brings questions, and every single one of yours matters. The CARS team is here to help you make sense of what you are experiencing and to walk alongside you. Reach out today to connect with a specialist and take your next step forward, at your own pace, with full support behind you.
*Source: ASRM