Endometrial growths are also sometimes found in other parts of the body, but this is uncommon. The most frequent symptom of endometriosis is pain before and during menstrual periods. In some women the pain escalates into a month-long nightmare. It can impair the ability to carry out the normal activities of life. Other symptoms can include pain during or after sexual activity, heavy or irregular bleeding, fatigue, pain with bowel movements at the time of the period, and bladder problems.
Endometriosis can also cause infertility.
Any of these symptoms should lead a woman or girl to see a competent doctor. Diagnosis of endometriosis is generally considered uncertain unless proven by laparoscopy. This is a relatively minor surgical procedure done under anesthesia. By moving the laparoscope around, the surgeon can check the condition of the abdominal organs and determine if endometriosis is present. The most common treatments for endometriosis include the use of hormones or surgical removal and destruction of the growths.