Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition in which endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterine cavity, leading to inflammation, scarring, and pain. It is a major cause of chronic pelvic pain, painful menstruation, and infertility, often affecting women during their reproductive years. The condition can significantly impact physical health, fertility, emotional well-being, and quality of life.

Endometriotic lesions commonly involve the ovaries, pelvic ligaments, peritoneum, bowel, and bladder. These implants respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, causing repeated inflammation and fibrosis. Over time, this process leads to adhesions and distortion of pelvic anatomy, contributing to pain and reproductive dysfunction.

Symptoms vary widely and may include severe menstrual cramps, pain during intercourse, chronic pelvic pain, painful bowel movements, urinary symptoms, and difficulty conceiving. The severity of symptoms does not always correlate with the extent of disease, making diagnosis challenging.

Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and in some cases surgical confirmation. Management is individualized and depends on symptom severity, disease extent, fertility goals, and response to previous treatments.

Treatment strategies aim to control pain, suppress disease progression, and preserve fertility when desired. Medical therapy focuses on hormonal suppression to reduce inflammation and symptom burden. Surgical intervention may be required in cases of severe pain, organ involvement, or infertility.

Endometriosis is a long-term condition requiring ongoing management rather than a one-time cure. A structured approach combining symptom control, fertility planning, and regular follow-up helps reduce disease impact and improve quality of life.