Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a very complex gynaecological condition characterized by the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity and is frequently associated with debilitating pelvic pain and infertility. The management of endometriosis can be challenging and should be tailored to each individual’s circumstances. Several medical and surgical treatment options are available and the choice of treatment will depend on a number of factors including age, fertility, pattern and severity of pain, and the stage of the disease. Medical treatment includes non-hormonal therapy in the form of painkillers and hormonal therapy such as progestogens, combined oral contraceptive pill and gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonists. All forms of hormonal manipulations are effective, but are not suitable for women trying to conceive and their beneficial effects are usually short-lived. On the other hand, conservative surgical treatment improves pain and fertility with a longer lasting effect, but carries significant surgical risks and can be challenging, especially in severe cases.