Endometriosis affects an estimated 190 million women worldwide, yet on average takes 7–10 years to diagnose. It is one of the most under-recognised and under-treated conditions in women's health. Early detection changes everything — from pain management to fertility outcomes.
"Painful periods are not normal. They are a signal your body is sending you. If period pain is affecting your quality of life, please come in for an evaluation — early diagnosis makes all the difference." — Dr. Ankita Bansal Goyal
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus — typically on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the lining of the pelvis, and sometimes the bowel or bladder. Each month, this tissue responds to hormonal changes, thickening and bleeding — but with nowhere to go, it causes inflammation, scar tissue, and adhesions.
Recognising the Symptoms
- Dysmenorrhoea: Severe, debilitating menstrual cramps that may worsen over time
- Chronic pelvic pain: Persistent pain throughout the month, not just during periods
- Dyspareunia: Deep pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Painful bowel movements or urination — especially during menstruation
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Infertility: Found incidentally in 20–40% of infertile women
- Fatigue, bloating, nausea — often worse around menstruation
The 4 Stages of Endometriosis
- Stage I (Minimal): Small, isolated implants on the pelvic lining with no scar tissue
- Stage II (Mild): Small implants on the ovaries and pelvic lining; minor scar tissue
- Stage III (Moderate): Deep implants, small endometriomas on ovaries, more scar tissue
- Stage IV (Severe): Large ovarian cysts (endometriomas), extensive adhesions binding organs together
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
The gold standard for diagnosis is diagnostic laparoscopy — a keyhole procedure that allows Dr. Ankita to directly visualise and biopsy endometrial lesions. Pelvic ultrasound can detect endometriomas but may miss superficial lesions. MRI provides additional detail for deeper infiltration.
Treatment Options
- Hormonal therapy: Oral contraceptives, progestogens, or GnRH agonists to suppress the menstrual cycle and slow disease progression
- Laparoscopic excision: Surgical removal of all visible endometrial tissue — the most effective treatment for pain relief and fertility restoration
- Hysterectomy: Reserved for severe, treatment-resistant cases in women who have completed their families
Endometriosis and Fertility
Stage III–IV endometriosis significantly impairs fertility through adhesions, endometriomas, and tubal damage. However, laparoscopic surgery dramatically improves natural conception rates. Dr. Ankita tailors every surgical plan to maximise the chance of future pregnancy wherever desired.
