Endometriosis: Overview and Recommendations for Primary Care Nurse Practitioners

Endometriosis, the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, is a chronic, disabling disease of uncertain etiology, with nonspecific signs and symptoms. Patients often experience chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility, as well as psychosocial stressors. Probable diagnosis may be based on clinical findings; however, laparoscopic surgery is required for definitive diagnosis. Therefore, considerable time may pass before the disease is recognized. This article discusses etiology, clinical presentation, and treatment and reviews typical factors in cases of delayed diagnosis. With a greater understanding of endometriosis, nurse practitioners will be equipped to identify symptoms and diagnose, manage, and refer patients.