He or she may do a physical exam, looking for cysts and nodules and areas of tenderness or thickening in your pelvis. This surgical procedure is usually done as an outpatient procedure. By performing a laparoscopy, your doctor can determine the size, location, and number of endometrial growths. Sometimes, tissue will be removed to confirm the diagnosis. In other cases, your doctor will remove endometrial growths, as part of the treatment, at the same time he or she does the laparoscopy.
Many women affected by endometriosis can live reasonably normal lives.
But some women can't long escape the pain, which ranges from mild to excruciating. In some cases, the disease can cause very severe, chronic pain and emotional stress, and make it difficult or impossible for those affected to carry on their normal business and personal activities. This can lead to serious financial difficulties and relationship problems. There is no reason for any woman with endometriosis to suffer in silence or go it alone. A great deal of understanding and support is available for those with the problem.