Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside it, commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. It can cause pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, and is found in a significant proportion of women investigated for infertility. Endometriosis is often described by severity and location, including superficial peritoneal disease, ovarian endometriomas, and deep infiltrating endometriosis, which involves deeper structures such as the bowel or bladder area and tends to cause more severe symptoms. Diagnosis can be suspected on ultrasound or MRI but is confirmed at laparoscopy. Treatment depends on symptoms, disease severity, and fertility goals, and may include pain management, surgery, or fertility treatment such as IUI or IVF; surgery before IVF is considered selectively, since it can help some women but carries its own risks to ovarian reserve.
Also known as: endo, deep infiltrating endometriosis, DIE
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
- Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (eshre.eu)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.