FAQs

There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but there are many treatment options to greatly improve patients' quality of life.

Menstrual irregularities that occur during puberty usually stabilize over time, but if this continues, you should consult your medical provider to check for any underlying cause.

A girl who has already had a baby can still have endometriosis. Pregnancy, and the increase in progesterone levels often relieve women of symptoms, but they typically return after birth and/or after stopping breastfeeding.

Researchers are still trying to understand the relationship between endometriosis and infertility, but approximately 30-40% of women with the disease are infertile. This makes endometriosis one of the top three causes of female infertility. Many women are unaware of their infertility or endometriosis until they attempt to get pregnant. In some women, endometriosis goes untreated and the disease progression allows the endometrial lesions to block the fallopian tubes and inhibit ovulatory functioning. Some studies also suggest that endometriosis may alter the uterus such that it does not accept an embryo, however, this notion requires more research.

It is important to talk to a gynecologist about any symptoms related to your reproductive health. Do not be afraid to seek a second opinion if you do not receive the care you think you need.

Yes. Birth control can cause a range of side effects including blood clots. However, many patients say side effects from birth control medications are much easier to manage than the symptoms of endometriosis. The risks of any medication or intervention must be discussed with your doctor.

With endometriosis, endometrial lesions are found in areas outside the uterus, whereas uterine fibroids develop within the uterus. Both conditions can co-occur and can cause heavy and painful menstruation.

Ovarian cysts are typically caused when the egg-releasing follicle in the ovary continues to grow. They remain in or on the surface of the ovary, and are typically harmless but can rupture, causing pain. Cysts caused by endometriosis (chocolate cysts) are caused by the accumulation of endometrial-like tissue on the ovaries and usually contain old blood.

Pain associated with endometriosis does not necessarily stop when a hysterectomy is completed as the ovaries continue to produce estrogen, facilitating disease progression. Additionally, lesions may still be found on other organs outside the reproductive system which may cause symptom manifestation.

When the uterus is removed, the woman no longer has any chance of becoming pregnant.

No. Endometriosis cannot be transmitted through sexual contact.

Research is still ongoing to determine the exact cause of endometriosis, but it is thought that there is likely some genetic component, as women who have endometriosis are likely to have female relatives with similar symptoms.